Police Ask Residents to Help Prevent Spring Break Burglaries

(COLUMBIA, MO) -

Police Ask Residents to Help Prevent Spring Break Burglaries

Columbia Police would like to remind residents to take time to prepare for extended absences over Spring Break.  Because many residents leave for vacation, they have the potential to be at an increased risk to become a victim of a burglary.

Citizens are reminded to take simple steps to ensure their residence is secure, prior to leaving for an extended period.

Residents are encouraged to:

Leave ample exterior/interior lights on, or use timersArrange for pickup/or stop delivery of mail, newspapers, and packagesEnsure all doors and windows are secureDisable automatic garage doorsMake a list of valuable items to include serial numbersAsk a trusted friend, neighbor or family member to check on your residence while you are awayDo NOT announce your absence on voicemail, email or social media sitesGive the residence the appearance that someone is home

All citizens are encouraged to be watchful in their neighborhoods and notify police immediately of any suspicious activity, vehicles, or persons. Descriptions, license plate numbers, and last location observed are important details for responding officers and investigators.

The Columbia Police Department will again be deploying additional resources during this time to help deter and detect burglaries. Various methods, including use of uniformed and plainclothes personnel, marked and unmarked police vehicles, and additional neighborhood patrols in areas identified as higher potential targets.

With the help of citizens, we believe we can have continued success combating burglaries in Columbia.