Colder temperatures and colorful trees usually mean the holidays are right around the corner. But as families get ready for out-of-town trips, thieves are also making plans.

Police say it's a busy time of year for burglars. That's why many homeowners, including Elissa Redden, make some changes as they head away from home.

"The locks on the doors are only for the honest people," says Redden.

Redden makes changes to help protect her home when she's away. "Whatever vehicles I do not take, I park in front of our garage doors, really close to touching."

Beckley Police Officer M.L. Larkin says authorities aren't the only ones who need to step up patrols during the holidays. He says staying safe is a community effort.

Larkin says it's helpful to keep the appearance that someone's around. He tells homeowners to put lights on a timer and get a neighbor or friend to stop by when the house is empty. "Pick up the mail and newspaper from the residence," says Larkin.

Police say home security systems may also help deter thieves. Jim Arthur is general manager at Electro-Quip Security in Beckley. He says electronics help keep burglars away. "Of course they've probably broken a window or forced a door and done some physical damage, but normally they haven't actually made an entrance into the home," says Arthur.

Larkin agrees and says the best advice goes back to concerned neighbors. This season, he's reminding people to call authorities at the first sign of trouble. All tips can remain confidential. Larkin says, "Their name is not given out over the air or anything. We don't broadcast that or tell people that."