Police warn Christmas trash may attract thieves

Officers stress that people should use caution in the way they package their trash.

Too often, packaging for big ticket items—like televisions, video game consoles and other electronics—left by the curb telegraphs to thieves what loot they can expect inside a home, officers said.

Officials advise residents to drop off bigger boxes at the nearest landfill to help get them off their property faster.

Another tip: Obscure smaller boxes for small, expensive items and put them in the trash in a way where they are not easily accessible.