MPD Reports Burglary Increase, Offers Holiday Safety Tips

The number of burglaries in the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department's second district, which includes Georgetown, has increased 17 percent from last year, according to a crime statistics report on Nov.19, and police warn residents to be more careful around the holidays.

"Historically most burglaries increase around the holidays when people are away," said Melvin Gresham, an MPD captain in the second district.

Last year there were 286 burglaries (thefts that involve breaking and entering) by Nov.19, and this year, there were 336. But robberies (thefts involving violence) have decreased 25 percent from last year, and there were 13 fewer robberies with a gun. 

Still, MPD advises being more alert this season and implementing a few safety measures if you are leaving your home for the holidays. 

According to MPD, installing automatic lights, stopping mail service and getting a neighbor to park in your driveway and shovel snow are effective ways to prevent a break in while away on vacation. 

If you're out for the evening, MPD says to leave lights and a TV or radio on and store holiday gifts where they can't been seen from the outside. 

Doors and windows should never be left unlocked, even for a few minutes, MPD says. 

Same goes for your car. Always lock doors and windows, keep shopping bags and packages in the trunk and never leave the car running without you in it, MPD says. 

"This holiday season, don't let the spirit of giving lull you into giving burglars, muggers and pickpockets a better chance to do their dirty work," the MPD website says. 

For more tips on staying safe during the holidays, whether you're out shopping or a stranger comes to your door, read MPD's Winter Holiday Safety Tips.