The Andalusia Police Department has a message for area residents – “Don’t leave your boxes out the road after Christmas.”

While Santa may have been exceptionally good to your family and children, bringing a flat screen TV, gaming system or even a high price stereo, Chief Wilbur Williams said after Christmas, thieves will be out scouting the streets.

“It’s sad, but that’s how it works,” Williams said. “Those boxes are a calling card for thieves. They know what’s in your home by simply looking to see what Santa brought you.”

Williams said use alternate means to dispose of the boxes such as collapsing them and placing inside the garbage can or a trash bag.

“You just want to hide them from prying eyes,” he said.

Once again Williams reminded residents to record serial numbers and descriptions of valuables – especially new ones.

“Keep that information in a safe place that’s easily accessible in the event an incident happens,” he said. “I also recommend taking photographs of the items, especially jewelry, to help in the identification process.”

Williams also explained that residents receiving outdoor items such as four-wheelers, dirt bikes or motorcycles should also register those items with their respective insurance company.

“Don’t rely on your homeowners policy to cover those in case of a theft,” he said. “You have to have your own separate policy for those. They usually explain that at the dealership, but it’s good advice to have in situations where you may purchase it from an individual.”

Williams said anyone observing suspicious activity around a home or business is as asked to report it to the nearest law enforcement agency by calling 911.