Crime & Safety

Do Ads Left on Doors Encourage Burglars?

Deerfield police chief cautions citizens to watch out for their neighbors' homes during spring break.

With the April 9 election less than two weeks away in Highland Park and Deerfield, more and more advertising is being left at people’s doors.

Though this may not be a normal cause for alarm, a larger than usual number of people are out of town because of spring break increasing the circumstances where a burglary could occur. In Deerfield, this happened around at Christmas time.

Earlier: Police Report 7 Christmas Car Burglaries

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The increased advertising being left at homes prompted Deerfield Police Chief John Sliozis to suggest people be more vigilant than usual for themselves and their neighbors. He suggests people collect the ad pieces and give it to their fellow citizens when they return.

“It’s like the old neighborhood watch,” Sliozis said. “People should be extra sensitive to their surroundings. It’s something you can do to help your neighbor and do for yourself.”

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Political flyers are not the only advertising left on people’s doors around spring break. “Landscapers advertise that way this time of year,” Sliozis said.

Sliozis also encourages people to let their neighbors know if they are going out of town and be alert for anything unusual. “You can cancel the newspaper and have your mail held,” he said. Getting a neighbor’s help is another important step.

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