Home Invasion in Palo Alto

in the past, home invasions in Palo Alto were not the typical norm for our community. These types of crimes do happen, and appear to be on the rise. "The act of committing a home invasion is escalating much like carjacking. The reason for the increase seems to follow a similar pattern," according to home security expert Chris E McGoey.

Last weekend a criminal entered a home on Hamilton Avenue in Palo Alto, while the family slept in their bedrooms. The criminal made off with personal items, including the keys to the family's VW, which became the getaway car.

What are the best ways to protect your family from becoming a victim of home invasion? Palo Alto police and Security experts offer these tips:

--Keep windows closed and locked even in warm weather
-- Install a solid core door and strong locks with reinforced strike plates
--Install a wide-angle 160° peephole
--Consider installing a home alarm or home security system

Anyone with information about a crime taking place in Palo Alto is asked to contact the Police Department at (650) 329-2413. Anonymous tips can be made by calling the tip line at (650) 329-2190 or by text message to (650) 383-8984 or by e-mail at PaloAlto@TipNow.org.