“KNOCK-KNOCK” BURGLARS

The Burbank Police Department has been made aware of a recent increase in residential burglaries occurring in the Toluca Lake adjacent area.  We want to make our residents living in this neighborhood aware of this trend so they can report any suspicious activity. In these scenarios, burglars look for unoccupied homes by knocking on doors or ringing doorbells to see if residents will answer.  When there is no answer at the door, burglars will typically begin checking the perimeter of a home, looking for an open window or unlocked door to gain entry.  Sometimes, suspects will even force their way inside.

The Burbank Police Department would like to provide the community with the following tips to help deter and prevent home burglaries, including “knock-knock” burglaries:

• NEVER open your door for anyone you don’t know or recognize.  Make your presence known, but don’t ever confront someone.
• Lock ALL doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s for a short period of time.
• Leave lights on whenever possible and keep lights on a timer when you are not home.
• Make sure the exterior and perimeter of your home is well-illuminated and install motion sensing lights wherever possible.
• Limit access to your property, driveway, and backyard with security gates.
• Video surveillance cameras, especially hardwired cameras, are a great tool and act as a good crime deterrent.  There are several cameras available that are motion-activated and will alert you on a smart phone if someone comes onto your property when you are not home.
• Every layer of security helps.  Deterrents like alarm signs, neighborhood watch signs and dogs are recommended.
• Be aware of your neighborhood surroundings.  Keep an eye out for suspicious subjects or vehicles you don’t recognize who might be loitering in the area without a reasonable explanation.
• Consider organizing a Neighborhood Watch Group to join crime prevention efforts with others in your neighborhood.
• If you’ll be out of town or away for an extended period of time, let your neighbors know.  Don’t allow mail and newspapers to pile up.

If you see a crime in-progress or anything that appears to be suspicious in your neighborhood, report it IMMEDIATELY to the Burbank Police Department.  Our 24-hour non-emergency number is (818) 238-3000.  For emergencies only, dial 9-1-1.