FRANKLIN—Just as a person should take precautions against theft while shopping for Christmas presents, the same goes for after the holiday. When you throw out boxes labeled as televisions, computers or other high-ticket items, that can be a signal to thieves, said Capt. Tim Whitt, spokesman for the Franklin Police Department.

“Burglary is a crime of opportunity, and it certainly does not help your cause to advertise to criminals that you have new items worth stealing,” he said. “I would recommend that you never, ever place boxes for new televisions, video gaming systems, etc. outside where they can be seen.”

Whitt suggested either cutting up the boxes until they can fit inside garbage cans or find other ways to destroy them, “but don’t keep them at curbside for collection.”

He recommends making a record of descriptions and serial numbers of all valuable items, whether or not they’re holiday gifts. Should any be stolen, there’s at least a chance of recovery.

Although he’s not noticed an increase in burglaries owing to the season, Whitt did say, “And, as always, actively practice crime prevention in order to reduce your chances of becoming a victim.”