Michigan State Police Offer Tips to Protect Seasonal Homes - Northern Michigan's News Leader

Michigan State Police Offer Tips to Protect Seasonal Homes

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Seasonal homes are prevalent throughout Northern Michigan and can sometimes attract thieves.

The Otsego County Sheriff's Office is investigating a break-in at a seasonal home in Bagley Township, where a gun, electronics, and other items are missing.

Aside from keeping your doors and windows locked, a Michigan State Police trooper says his biggest piece of advice is to make your home appear to be lived in.

He says to ask a reliable neighbor to park in your driveway, or at least leave tire tracks in the snow.

If there's a lot of snow, he says to have it plowed and to not leave mailboxes full.

Some other recommendations include: using motion lights, putting a radio on a timer, installing an alarm system, keeping your shrubs trimmed and grass mowed, plowing and shoveling snow.

Michigan State Police also advise not leaving any guns at your seasonal home, when you're away for extended periods of time.