It's that time of year when some individuals choose to do their holiday 'shopping' at the expense of others. The Macomb Police Department (MPD) is standing ready to keep an eye on your property while you're traveling over the hills and through the woods this season.
Macomb homeowners and renters can sign up to enroll in MPD's House Watch program, which will put the residence on the 'watch rotation' list while they're away. Contact the Macomb Police Department at (309) 833-4505 for more information, including to be added to the list. Homeowners/renters will need to provide the address, start and end date, emergency contact information, lights left on, security lights and cameras on the property and other information the officers should know.
According to Interim Chief Todd Tedrow, the MPD House Watch program has been a service that's been in place for over 20 years. Homeowners and renters who are leaving for vacation, for an extended period of time or even just a weekend can take advantage of the program, he added.
'There are several ways to deter thefts and burglaries. Simple things such as keeping doors and windows locked and secured, not just at your home, but with your vehicle as well. Leaving lights on within the home, and using smart bulbs or light timers act as a deterrent,' Tedrow added. 'Having a friend or neighbor collect packages or mail that have been delivered to your home as packages and mail that have piled up indicate the homeowner may be away. In addition, unaccompanied packages can also be susceptible to theft.
