‘Tis the season to be merry. But ’tis also the season for burglars to take advantage. ‘Tis the season to be merry. But ‘tis also the season for burglars to take advantage. ADVERTISING Hawaii police officers are warning the public
‘Tis the season to be merry. But ‘tis also the season for burglars to take advantage.
Hawaii police officers are warning the public to be extra careful this holiday season, and report any suspicious activities, especially suspicious people in your neighborhood, day or night.
If you suspect a burglary is in progress, or if you encounter any suspicious person on your property, call 911. To report suspicious persons in your neighborhood, call the Police Department’s nonemergency line at 935-3311. Tipsters who prefer to remain anonymous may call Crime Stoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona.
The following tips can help reduce the chances of burglary in your neighborhood:
Lock your doors and windows when you leave your home, including those in the rear of the house that aren’t visible from the street.
Be cautious of posting your location on social networking sites as they can be used by criminals to determine if you are home.
Familiarize yourself with your neighbors and their cars.
If you see unfamiliar vehicles driving around your neighborhood, note the vehicle’s description, the license plate number and descriptions of occupants and report them to police.
Beware of strangers knocking on doors. They may be burglars checking to see if a house is occupied. Report suspicious persons coming to your home to police immediately.
Don’t leave a house key hidden outside your home.
Keep your home well-lit.
Keep trees and bushes trimmed so they don’t provide cover for burglars.
If you come home and see evidence that someone has been in your home or may still be there, leave the area and call police immediately.
Ask your neighbors to report any suspicious persons and vehicles seen at or near your home.
— WHT
