Hamilton Co. Sheriff: How To Reduce Warm Weather Burglary, Theft

HAMILTON COUNTY, IN -- Hamilton County Sheriff's Office wants to remind area residents to be careful as the weather gets better, as warmer temperatures are often accompanied with an increase in crime, especially burglaries and theft. HCSO urges community members to as always, quickly report any suspicious activity.

HCSO Sheriff Bowen encourages residents to take the following proactive steps to help protect your homes and cars:

• Get to know your neighbors and watch out for each other.
• Lock your doors even when you are home.
• Close and lock garage and shed doors.
• Park vehicles in the garage or in the driveway and lock the doors.
• Close windows when away from home.
• Keep outside lights on or install motion detector lights around the house and driveway.
• Never leave a hidden key outside. Burglars know all the good hiding places.
• Home alarm systems are great but they only work if they are armed and activated.
• Trim landscaping and avoid clutter t o minimize hiding places.
• Record make, model, and serial numbers of electronics, firearms, and other items. Photos and appraisals should be kept of jewelry, artwork, and similar items. Having these records on hand in the case of a theft can make the difference in recovering stolen items.
• If you arrive home and your home has been burglarized, stay outside until law enforcement arrives. You don’t want to walk in with a burglar still in your home.

Sheriff's office officials say they've responded to several burglary and theft reports recently, which they say is typical for this time of year. However, officials add that while cases are random, more crowded areas such as Home Place are typically hit more.

HCSO says criminals often focus on smaller items that can be transported such as jewelry, cash, electronics. Vehicle thefts mostly take place with cars that are unlocked or parked in isolated areas.

Please report suspicious activity to Hamilton County Public Safety Communications at 317-773-1282 or 911 for an emergency.

More: Hamilton County Sheriff's Office

Photo credit: HCSO