Burglary patterns noted

A pattern of five residential burglaries in the 5700 block of Dorchester and the 1500 block of 59th Street -- all reported between Nov. 22 and Dec. 1 -- has been noted by the South East Chicago Commission. All of the burglaries occurred on weekdays. Four of the burglaries took place during the day; the other was in the early evening.

Another pattern of eight residential burglaries on Dorchester, Blackstone and Harper avenues, between 48th and 53rd streets, occurred between Nov. 9 and Nov. 28, the SECC reported. Burglaries occurred in the 4800, 4900, 5000 and 5100 blocks of Dorchester; the 5100, 5200 and 5300 blocks of Harper; and the 5200 block of Blackstone. In most cases, the offender(s) entered the residences by forcing or prying open the front door.

To guard against burglary, the SECC offers the following tips:

_ Make it tough for a thief to enter your home -- lock up.

_ Make your home look occupied at all times. Use timers to turn lights and radios on and off.

_ Christmas is an appealing time for thieves; break up boxes that indicate that you have new valuables, such as TVs, stereos, microwaves.

_ Be a good "nosy" neighbor -- call police if you see something suspicious.

_ Let neighbors know if you will be away.

For more information or to request a security survey of your home, call the SECC at 324-6926.