Tis the season for car burglaries

The holiday season is a wonderful time of the year for most everyone. We all enjoy the usual sounds, sights and experiences that go along with Thanksgiving and Christmas. Most everyone gets started on their Christmas shopping a little early to avoid the rush as the big day grows near. Unfortunately good folks are not the only ones that take advantage of this time of year to do their early shopping.

It seems that every year at this time thieves begin to do their early shopping as well. Car burglaries have really picked up in the city of Tyler and surrounding area. The Whitehouse police department is currently working

three auto burglaries that occurred recently as well. I would like to offer some helpful tips to our citizens that will assist them in not becoming a victim of this crime.

Please do not leave items such as cell phones, CDs, purses or other valuables visible in your auto. Make sure your vehicle is locked and secure. Park inside your garage and lock the door if you have one. Utilize exterior lighting if you have it. If you don't currently have outdoor lights consider installing some. Lighting is great security and it helps deter thieves and improves our ability in spotting those who should not be on your property late at night. Watch for strange

vehicles frequenting your street and get a license number and a description of the occupants and vehicle if possible. Phone that information in to the police department as soon as you can. We will respond to check them out.

Hopefully these simple tips will keep your vehicles and property safe from burglars. During this time of year the police department adds extra patrols to the neighborhoods and with your help we can either prevent burglaries or catch the thieves responsible

Happy Holidays Rick Waller Chief of Police Whitehouse P.D.