Westfield, IN – As families clean up after Christmas celebrations, Westfield police are reminding residents that what’s left at the curb could attract unwanted attention.
According to the Westfield Police Department, leaving boxes from new and valuable gifts — such as televisions, electronics, or other high-priced items — outside for trash pickup can unintentionally advertise what was received inside the home. Officers say this increases the risk of theft during the post-holiday period.
Police are encouraging residents to take a few extra minutes to break down boxes and dispose of them properly, rather than placing large branded packaging at the curb. Flattening boxes, cutting them into smaller pieces, or placing them inside trash bins can help reduce visibility to potential criminals.
The reminder comes as many neighborhoods see increased trash volume following Christmas, when packaging from gifts and online deliveries piles up quickly. Law enforcement officials say thieves often look for easy indicators of valuable items inside homes, and discarded boxes can serve as a clear signal.
Westfield police emphasized that simple prevention steps can make a difference not just for individual households, but for entire neighborhoods. Residents are also encouraged to look out for one another and report suspicious activity when noticed.
The department shared the message as part of its broader holiday safety efforts, which focus on reducing theft and keeping communities safe during one of the busiest times of the year.
Police say these precautions are especially important in the days immediately following Christmas, when many people return to work schedules and homes may be unattended for longer periods.
Residents can find additional safety tips on the Westfield Police Department’s social media pages throughout the holiday season.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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