Law enforcement often sees an increase in thefts during the spring and summer, because residents leave more property outside, unattended, the sheriff said. But citizens can help deter thieves by being more careful with their personal items.

“The majority of thefts seem to be crimes of opportunity such as lawn mowers left in plain view or vehicles being left unlocked,” he said.

The public is reminded to keep their property locked up and to be a good neighbor by calling the Sheriff’s Office when suspicious activity is observed.

The Sheriff also recommends:

• Trimming back trees and shrubs from doors and windows of your home;
• Videotaping the contents of your home, storage shed, and garage; and
• Engraving all valuables, including tools, lawn equipment and air conditioners, with your driver’s license number – not your Social Security number.