'Tis the season for home invasions

Tyler, Texas — If you've already put your presents under the tree, you may want to think twice. When burglars are on the prowl and spot a load of Christmas gifts through your family room window, your house becomes their target.

Police say, don't put your presents out too soon and if you leave town protect your home. Don Martin Tyler police public information officer tells KETK, "Have lights on in your house, use the timers for your lamps inside your residence to appear that someone's home."

Thieves know that many people leave town for the holiday, so Martin also recommend to tell a neighbor to watch your house, Martin says, "A lot of times we will catch burglars because that neighbor will call us and say i know they're out of town and there's a strange can or truck that just pulled in behind their house, we'll get over there and catch them in the act."

Officer Martin also encourages everyone, especially women who may be carrying shopping bags to their car or house to always be aware of their surroundings, and protect themselves with mace or he says to carry, “a loud whistle to bring attention to yourself, just keeping keys in your hand to use as a weapon if need be."