Yardwork Season Is Burglary Season, Police Warn
DENVER (CBS4) - With warmer weather comes an increase in burglaries, according to Denver Police.
As people do work around their yard, and sometimes leave tools or heavy equipment around, it gives plenty of opportunity for criminals to make their move.
"It's too nice not to," enjoy the spring season and do some yardwork said homeowner Scott Hyland. It's also the height of burglary season.
Sonny Jackson of DPD explained, "People are starting to leave their windows open, their doors open, their garages ... and that makes you more vulnerable to burglars."
Warnings go beyond just open windows and doors, as garden tools, landscaping materials and home improvement equipment are appealing to burglars as well.
"Put yourself in the mind of the burglar. What could I use to break into my own home? What's laying around my home?" said Jackson.
Recently, Denver officers responded to seven burglaries, and in three of those incidents the suspects used landscaping rocks to break into the homes.
"Anything they can use to pry open a door, pry open a window, they'll use that," described Jackson.
Hyland said he's careful to put his tools away, but also has the best kind of safety system, "I've got two big dogs. That's about all the security I need."
Denver police say guard dogs are always helpful, but add that being a watchful neighbor and keeping an eye out for suspicious activity is key.
