A recent study shows Pennsylvania among the top two most likely states to experience burglaries during the holiday season, but home security systems and video-recording doorbells may be helping Butler County buck that trend.

According to state police public information officer for Troop D, Josh Black, the larger issue in the Butler County region during the holiday season is thefts from vehicles.

“When I spoke with criminal investigators, you almost see a decrease in burglaries. Everybody has a Ring system and home security systems,” he said. “During holidays from past years, we’ve seen lots of thefts from motor vehicles in shopping areas: at Target, the Grove City Outlets and Clearview Mall.”

In order not to fall victim to a theft from a vehicle, Black said preventative measures can be taken when shopping this holiday season.

“Typically this time of year, we always encourage you to lock and secure your car. Don’t leave anything in plain view; don’t leave bags with bought items inside,” he said. “Bad guys are opportunists. If they see it and the car is unlocked, that’s the path of least resistance for them. Or they’re going to be breaking a window.”

Black said if items are stolen from vehicles, an investigation is started regardless of the value of the items.

“We do a full investigation on every kind of item. It could be a purse or a $2,000 TV. Sometimes the items are put up for sale online, and we can confirm those are the items stolen from vehicles,” he said.

According to a study by Porch, a website that helps homeowners connect with contractors, burglaries in Pennsylvania jump by about 40% in December compared to the other months of the year.

Pennsylvania is second only to New Jersey, and ranked equally with Illinois.

The study shows the average dollar amount for a holiday burglary comes in at $2,891, which is 5 percent higher than the average at other times of the year. Jewelry, computers and furs are about 10 percent more likely to be stolen during the holiday season.

According to Black, to prevent home burglaries, it’s best to think about how you’re presenting your home.

“Well lit, secure homes that are using security systems are set up for success,” he said. “Not posting on social media, saying ‘Hey we’re going to the beach over Christmas,’ is a good idea. If you are going away, cancel your mail, or have a trusted neighbor pick up your packages,” he said. “Again, it’s all about opportunity.”

How you dispose of your Christmas boxes can also deter burglars.

“If you get packages, don’t put the big TV box outside for your trash, maybe cut that up or burn it. Don’t display what you have (inside),” Black said.

The key to keeping the numbers low this holiday season is community awareness, according to Black.

“Simple precautions will deter a lot of bad guys,” he said. “We find they’re opportunists who take the path of least resistance. So give them a little resistance,” he said.