The Kent Police Department have released tips to improve security around your home and keep it less likely to be a target of a residential burglary.

It is important that neighbors be aware of what is going on in your neighborhood, according to police. Whenever you see anything suspicious, call 911 immediately and explain specifically what suspicious activity you are seeing.

Here are some tips:

• Keep all windows, doors and sliding doors locked whether even when you are home. Install protective window film to smaller windows next to doors. This helps prevent breaking of glass and denying access to inside of front door.

• Close garage doors and entries to garages-keep them shut and locked.

• Use secondary locking systems on windows/sliding glass doors (wooden dowels etc.).

• Locate valuables such as purses, laptops, small electronics, cash and jewelry out of plain sight from windows and doors. If you choose to keep cash and other important items in your home, keep them locked in a safe. You may also use a safe deposit box at a bank.

• Install good lighting in the front, back and sides of your home such as motion sensor lighting. Lighting allows things/people to be seen and alerts you and neighbors when something unusual is happening.

• Participate in Operation ID – document valuables, serial numbers, and photos of valuables so that in case of a break-in you have this information available to provide to police to assist in identifying your property.

• Be aware of your surroundings. When walking to and from your vehicle look around and make note of any suspicious and unfamiliar people, groups of people, behavior, and activity. If you spot anything suspicious, call 911 immediately.

• Consider becoming a Block Watch through the Kent Police Department. Kent Police is hosting a Block Watch 101 class on Thursday, Sept. 28 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the Kent Police/Fire Training Center, 24523 116th Ave. SE. RSVP to swood@kentwa.gov if you’d like to attend and learn more crime prevention tips and how to start a Block Watch in your neighborhood.