BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to summer and also a time when many people head on vacation.
Homeowners should be vigilant throughout the year, but as you head out of town this summer and leave your home vacant, criminals have an opportunity to get in.
Bakersfield Police Community Relations Specialist Kelsey Taylor said following simple steps can keep your home from becoming a target.
Taylor said posting on social media that you’re on vacation is a common mistake many people make.
“Everything online can be seen,” said Taylor. “You’re basically telling the world that you’re not at home at that time and it’s almost a free playing field for criminals.”
“It is really fun of course to post about the great vacation that we’re having, but please try to hold off on posting anything on social media about your vacation until you return home,” she said.
The key to keeping burglars away is simple. Make them think you never left your home in the first place.
“You really want to give it as ‘lived in’ as a look as possible,” said Taylor. “Make sure that all the light bulbs outside are good to go.”
Letting newspapers pile up in your driveway is another mistake people make.
“If you have deliveries coming that way, or if you have newspapers coming in every day or your mail, make sure you make arrangements prior to your vacation,” said Taylor.
So prepare before hitting the road.
According to FBI data, nearly 75 percent of all burglaries happen in residential settings.
Over the last three years in Bakersfield, the number of home burglaries increased during the months of January, March and July.
“We do see a lot of door kick burglaries here in Bakersfield,” said Taylor.
She recommends adding a door security bar, which makes it difficult for intruders to kick the door with enough force to actually open it.
But, no matter how much you prepare, you’re never 100 percent safe.
“Look into making an itemized list of everything they own,” said Taylor. “Their televisions, their laptops, jewelry even, getting pictures of family heirlooms.”
Read more: Preventing residential burglaries: Tips to protect your home this summer
Related article: Tips: Home Security & Burglary Prevention
Miami Shores Locksmith 