Police Chief's Brief: Summer's the Time for Burglary

Now that summer is in full swing, I would like to recommend some safeguards that we should all take to protect our property.

Many of us travel in the summer months leaving behind a vacant home. Residents should always take precautions when leaving home even for short periods of time to go run an errand. There have been many times over the years in which a home was left unlocked for an hour or so only for the resident to return and find that the premise was burglarized.

Last year alone, I recall some homes that were specifically targeted because they were left open or unlocked while someone ran to the store or out for an appointment only to return several hours later to find that the residence had been entered by an intruder. This also applies to those of us that leave a car open with valuables inside that are clearly visible to anyone who has looked within. Countless times, there have been automobiles broken into in Wilton and an Ipod, GPS, laptop computer or various other items have been removed.

Wilton is not unique in this area of crime, as it occurs in each community with frequency. The key to prevention is making it more difficult for a potential intruder to enter your home or vehicle. Automobiles that are less likely to be broken into are those that do not have valuables in plain sight and are locked. That is not to say that your car will not be entered, but the less attractive it is to a criminal the more likely they will move on to another car.

The same also applies for homes. Homes that are marked with alarm placards, have lights on at night and shrubbery that does not permit someone to hide behind to gain access to a window are less likely to be targeted for burglary. When away from home you should also stop or have your mail and newspapers picked up daily. An accumulation of them is a testament that no one is at home for an extended period. Get to know your neighbors so that they will keep an eye on your home when they know you are away. You should ask yourself what kind of message your home sends to a potential burglar. Is it an easy target? According to the FBI, a burglary occurs in the U.S. every 15.4 seconds. Most burglaries occur during the daytime and during the summer months.

The Wilton Police Department offers a free crime prevention security assessment of any resident's home or business. An officer will meet with you and conduct a survey of your property. The officer will make certain recommendations in an effort to assist you so that you do not become a victim of a crime. You can also call the Department and inform us that you will be away and that your home will be vacant for an extended time. An officer will, as time permits, make periodic checks of the exterior of the home and make sure that it is secure. Those who are interested in these services may call the Department at 203-834-6260.

I wish each of you and your families a safe and enjoyable summer.

-Michael Lombardo, Chief of Police