Burglars Target Weston. How to Protect Your Home

Weston homeowners were hit with a rash of burglaries last month. Police made three arrests following one break-in made while a Godfrey Road East woman was showering, and responded to three other incidents that appear to be unrelated, according to Det. Carl Filsinger.

On June 6 a burglar forced open a window open to gain entry to a house on Old Redding Road, jewelry and silverware was taken in the burglary of a house on Cartbridge Road on June 19, and the rear door to a Newtown Turnpike home was forced open and belongings were stolen from a bedroom during a daytime burglary on June 21.

So how can homeowners protect themselves and their families? Filsinger recently shared a few tips.

"If you're gonna be away, have a neighbor watch the house and report anything suspicious," he said.

Filsinger also recommends asking a neighbor or family member collect your mail and newspapers, which he says is a better option than having the Postal Service temporarily stopping delivery.

"Make sure hedges and shrubs are trimmed back, so doors and windows aren't hidden from view," he said, adding that most burglars would avoid breaking into a window or door in clear view.

The detective reminds residents to lock their windows and doors and to use their alarm if they have one. Filsinger recommends buying a security door brace, which is wedged under the door knob, as added protection.

"That's a good way to secure a rear door," he said.

In the event that a burglar breaks in when you are home, Filsinger suggests having a "safe room", a place with a solid wood door and a deadbolt which family members can retreat to and call the police.

If you choose to have a gun in the house, Filsinger said to make sure family knows about it, respect gun laws and know how to handle the weapon.

There are ways to protect your belongings for times when burglars succeed at entering your home. 

"Don't put jewelry in an obvious place," Filsinger said. "The first place burglars go is right into the master bedroom."

Filsinger also recommends taking an inventory and photos of valuable belongings and keeping an appraisal list available — which homeowners insurance companies want to see to prove dollar amounts.