COEUR d'ALENE - During the summer vacation season, the Coeur d'Alene Police Department experiences an increase in theft and burglary reports. Residents who leave their homes to pursue North Idaho's natural beauty often return to find them broken into, priceless items taken, and their sense of security shaken.

In order to protect your property from theft year round, we'd like to offer some helpful tips for home security:

Burglars can enter your home in any number of ways. Most of them simply enter through the front door, but first-floor windows, back doors, storage areas, and second-floor windows are also likely points of entry. Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even if you will only be gone "for a minute."

Most homeowners don't think of the second story of their house as being vulnerable, but it is. Are there trees or branches burglars could climb to get into the second story of your house? Are there drain pipes or trellises that provide access? How about a second-story deck?

Your landscaping shouldn't provide help or cover for burglars. Trim the bushes and branches back or even have trees cut down. You can also move the downspouts to an area where they don't compromise security. Although a trellis may be pretty, if it's in the wrong place it really should be moved or taken down.

If your garage is connected to your home, make sure to keep the inside door locked. If your garage door opens with a remote control, check for updated technology. The remote may open and shut your garage door, but if it is an older style with a single frequency, you are vulnerable to anyone having the same kind of remote.

Walk around your home after dark to identify where additional outdoor lighting could make the area more secure. Criminals don't like light and the better lighting you have on possible entry points, the safer and more secure your family will be. You can now buy solar powered lights that will help protect your home at a small cost. Put them where you need them. The more you do to make getting into your house difficult, the better chance you have of staying safe and secure in your home.

If you are a victim of a crime, report it to the Police Department immediately at 769-2320. For emergencies, please call 9-1-1. Be careful to preserve any evidence left at the scene of the crime and do not enter your home without a police escort if you believe someone has burglarized your home while you were away. The Coeur d'Alene Police Department would like all of our residents and visitors to enjoy a safe and peaceful summer.