CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — As Thanksgiving approaches, Champaign County Sheriff Dustin Heuerman is providing helpful things to keep in mind.

“Property crime is most often a crime of opportunity,” stated Heuerman. “If someone is motivated to commit a crime, and sees an easy opportunity to commit a crime, they are more likely to do so. This is why taking some simple steps to make that opportunity more difficult is so important.”

If leaving your house for an extended period of time, some simple suggestions to reduce the potential for a burglary or theft include:

• Making sure windows and doors are locked;
• Closing blinds or curtains so someone outside cannot see what you have inside;
• Leave a light on inside or use automatic light timers;
• Have a trusted neighbor remove packages from your porch.
  Making it look like you are home may be enough to deter someone from targeting your house if they are not targeting you
  specifically, but rather just looking for the right opportunity and do not care where they find it.
  When holiday shopping:
• Never place purchased gifts in plain view of others who may be walking by your vehicle – choose a trunk or under a
  blanket instead;
• Make sure to lock your vehicle doors and close your vehicle windows;
• If shopping at night, park in a well-lit area;
• Always be aware of your surroundings;
• Keep hold of your purse or wallet and never publicly display large amounts of cash.
  Remember – more often than not, burglars and thieves choose their victims because of what they see, not because of who you
  are – and they don’t like taking chances that won’t pay off. The more you do to make it seem like you are not worth their time
  and effort, the less likely you are to be a victim of property crime.