x
Breaking News
More () »

Why your trash could tip off a burglar

Police across the country are warning people to hide their trash from expensive gifts, such as electronics.

PORTLAND, Maine — Police across the country are offering tips to prevent people's expensive gifts from being stolen.

The most obvious sign to a burglar could be the trash people leave outside their homes: boxes that contained expensive electronics can tip off criminals of the gifts inside a person's home, making it an attractive target.

"It's just scary that we even have to think about that, isn't it?" said Chelsea Beliveau, who said she has had personal items, including her wallet, stolen before. "Quite scary and something happened while you're sleeping. It's a really scary thing to think about."

In Maine -- property crimes made up nearly 93 percent of the crime in the state in 2017. State Police reported that burglary only accounted for 15 percent of crimes last year.

Now police across the country are offering tips to keep these expensive items, and your home, safe.

"Always evaluate what opportunities you're providing to people who have other intentions," said Chief John Kilbride from the Falmouth Police Department.

Chief Kilbride advised taking pictures of serial numbers on electronics, and of jewelry.

"Take some photos of those nice, new items that you have so if you are ever victimized, it helps us out tracking that stuff down," said Chief Kilbride. "When somebody's in your bedroom or somebody's in your kitchen and things get stolen, property can be replaced, but that sense of security is taken away."

He also discouraged people from posting pictures on social media of the items they received or if they leave their home on vacation.

Before You Leave, Check This Out