Summer is officially here, and with the warmer weather comes a new concern for household security.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the rate of household burglaries are 11 percent higher in the summer than in the winter, with the month of August having the highest household break-in rate. Behaviors such as leaving windows and doors open or unattended when leaving the house are often linked to the high rates of burglaries.
Sun City residents have been on alert after a recent string of break-ins were reported to the Huntley Police this year. Due to the break-ins, an increase in surveillance has been put in place.
The Huntley Police have been updating the public on their on-going investigation of the burglaries. Police have warned residents that the suspects are a male and a female between the ages of 25 and 35 years old.
It has also been reported that the suspects have been seen driving slowly through neighborhoods, and could possibly be connected to other crimes committed in the Chicago area.
Last year, The Huntley Police Department released official Community Alerts warning Sun City residents of the incidents. The public safety alert encourages residents to be vigilant and be aware of any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area.
The HPD also urges residents that take short trips to keep up the appearance that they are home by following simple habits such as leaving a car in the drive-way with the garage-door-opener out of the car, leaving the radio or television on, keeping valuables in a secure, out-of-sight location, and also securing sliding doors or any other entry point into the house.
If a resident is leaving for an extended amount of time, it is also suggested to put a temporary hold on mail and newspaper deliveries in order to give the impression that there is someone home.
Huntley Police have also suggested the installment of a security system with the security company logo visible on doors and windows in order to deter burglars.
If Sun City residents have reason to believe their household is not safe, or if they witnesses any suspicious activity, the Huntley Police advises residents to contact the department and report any suspicions.
