(CHAFFEE COUNTY, Colo.) — The Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) is warning the community of a recent string of burglaries to unoccupied homes while the people living there were either away for the holidays or for the winter season.
CCSO posted the warning to Facebook on Tuesday, Jan. 30, and said its agency had taken numerous reports of burglaries to unoccupied homes. CCSO warned that the suspects appear to be watching neighborhoods and targeting homes where it is apparent no one has been home: recent snow, lack of snow removal, and no lights on inside the home, among other indicators.
While it appears that the suspects have been targeting a particular area of the community, CCSO said it is important for all community members to protect their homes and avoid becoming a victims.
CCSO provided some tips for securing your home and preventing being targeted by potential burglars or intruders.
Check in with your neighbors. Build a relationship with the neighbors around you, and if you plan to be away, ask them to check in on your property.
Lights on timers. Set lights inside and around your property to illuminate, as lights signal that someone is home. This can include motion-activated lights for the exterior and any outbuildings.
Snow removal. In the wintertime, consider contracting snow removal services and make arrangements for your driveway to be plowed and your sidewalks shoveled.
Upkeep landscaping. Keeping doorways, windows, and the rest of your property clear of excess brush and trees can help with visibility and allow friends and neighbors to see if something is out of place or if there are unwanted visitors.
Inventory valuables. Keep an up-to-date inventory of valuables stored in the home, including photos and serial numbers. Be sure to lock up valuables and keys if you have a gun safe.
Security cameras. CCSO said numerous companies sell inexpensive and easy-to-operate security cameras. This kind of system can notify you immediately if someone has entered your home or property, and they also record audio and visual evidence for extended periods.
As far as the previously reported break-ins, CCSO said it is still investigating and will notify the community if there are any updates.
