Home Burglary Attempts Prompt Warning, Tips From Palatine Police

PALATINE, IL — Palatine police are warning residents to be cautious with home security after two recent burglary attempts at village apartments and condos. Both cases involved first-floor residences, and the would-be burglars tried to gain entry by prying open the units' windows, according to police.

The department offered the following tips when it comes to safeguarding homes against potential break-ins:

• Keep doors locked even when someone is at home.
• Dead-bolt lock strike plates should be made of durable steel and anchored to a sturdy door frame with at screws that are 3-inches or longer.
• Put wooden dowels or metal rods in the tracking for sliding doors.
• Window locks should be strong enough that they can't be forced open.
• Keep inside and outside lights on timers to make it appear that someone is in the home when it's dark.

Police also urge residents to immediately report suspicious people, vehicles and incidents to the department. Residents also can call the Palatine Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit at 847-359-9061 for more information concerning home security.

Photo via Palatine Police Department | Village of Palatine