Infographic: Residential Burglaries on the Rise

South Pasadena and surrounding communities are seeing a rise in residential burglaries, police said. 

Here's a common scenario: The burglar will knock on the suspect's door to see if anyone is home. If the suspect answers, police say, the burglar will allegedly ask for a made-up friend that lives there. If no one answers the door, the burglar will look for a way in usually through a side or back door. 

The monthly crime summary released Friday shows 12 residential crimes in South Pasadena throughout April. 

Below are some tips via South Pas Police to keep you and your family safe. 

• Lock all doors and windows.
• Keep landscaping trimmed to avoid hiding spots and consider planting thorny types of plants under windows.
• Lock valuables in a safety deposit box, or a safe at home. Be sure home safes are bolted to the floor.
• Replacing louvered windows can be expensive. Consider gluing each window pane to it’s metal frame.
• Keep side gates locked to deter access to side and rear yards.
• Always make your home appear occupied; put lights and radios on timers.
• Should you come home and find a door or window unexpectedly open, do NOT go in! Go to a neighbor’s house, or use a cell phone and call the police.
• Good lighting helps prevent burglaries at night. Install lights at all sides of the house. Be sure to place lights out of arms reach, so they can’t be unscrewed.
• Use good quality deadbolt locks on all exterior and French-type doors.
• Be sure to keep detached garages locked, and use good quality locks.
• Participate in Operation Identification where electronic engravers are loaned to you for free. Contact for more information.