Your trash could turn your home into a target

If the holidays were good to you and you finally got that tablet, TV, or computer at the top of your list, remember to proceed with caution, because your trash could turn you into a target.

Corporal Gary Fournier of the Delaware State Police tells 47 ABC, “this big 50 inch TV that comes in a box, those things are advertisements for burglars to check out your house and watch you to see when your leaving,” and “This is a primary reason why people get targeted for burglaries.”

We’re told that burglaries involving homes with large high-priced gift boxes are quite common during the winter season.

“This happens all the time,” Cpl. Fournier tells 47 ABC, “Don’t become a victim of a burglary just because you received a new Christmas item that is in a large box,”

Some ways to get rid of boxes, shredding them, disposing of them at a local recycling plant, or as Corporal Fournier recommends…just let it burn.

“Good kindling. If you have an outdoor fireplace or an indoor fireplace that you can burn this, perhaps just use small bits and pieces of it,”

Protecting yourself and your new gift doesn’t stop with caution at the curb.
We’re told images that you may post on social media, possibly with your new gadget, may also tip off burglars.

“people may get that and know, hey this guy has this new TV I’m going to try and get over there and take this.”

It’s also important to keep your car in mind. Visible valuables can also entice burglars to steal.

According to 2014 stats from the National Insurance Crime Bureau, New Year’s Eve saw the 6th highest incidence of vehicle thefts of all holidays with
1,858 reported car break-ins.