The Federal Way Police Department wants to inform city residents of a disturbing increase in the number of reported home burglaries over the past six years.

An analysis of the reports from 2001-2005 indicated a steady increase in residential burglaries. In 2006, our crime statistics revealed a decrease in residential burglaries by as much as 5.8 percent.

Federal Way Police Department staffs have examined the data provided and have noticed a pattern emerging.

A common method of entry has been found to be through an unsecured door or window.

This method has accounted for 25 percent of the burglaries. The data showed that 48 percent of the burglaries occurred in homes with no security devices such as deadbolts, interior or exterior lights, an alarm, or even a dog.

The Federal Way Police Department would like to educate citizens on the common risks of residential burglaries. We want to continue to improve our efforts in the reduction of burglaries in our City and encourage the community to practice a few simple crime prevention tips to minimize the chances of potentially becoming a victim of this crime.

Crime Prevention Tips:

Lock all doors and windows when you are at home.

Use a peephole with a 190-degree viewing angle.

Always ask visitors to acknowledge themselves at the door.

Use exterior lighting.

Trim shrubbery that could conceal criminal activity near doors and windows.

Use strong door hinges on all exterior doors.

Strong, reliable locks are essential to effective home security.

Install keyed locking devices for sliding glass doors.

Install locking pins on most all double hung windows. This will prevent the window from being raised from the outside.

Lock up all bicycles, ladders, and garden equipment (even hoses), in a safe place. Anything left out can be inviting to a burglar.

Join a Neighborhood Block Watch

Report suspicious activity to the police.