Shelby County Sheriff, Willis Blackwell is warning local residents to protect themselves and their property against crime this holiday season.  According to Sheriff Backwell, burglaries increase dramatically this time of year.

Sheriff Blackwell offered a few tips to protect your property.

1.  Make sure gifts aren't visible from outside.

2.  Wath what you post on social media

3.  Be careful about disposing of packaging

4.  Don't run external lights through a window

5.  Make sure your home is well lit.

6.  Put your lights on a timer.

7.  Make use of motion sensors

8.  Be wary of door-to-door donation seekers

9.  Secure your home

Sheriff Blackwell said to take proper steps to ensure that your home is secure from all possible threats.  By taking these steps, you can effectively reduce the chances of becoming a victim to a burglary.