What it might mean if you find food scraps outside your door

In a Manchester neighborhood, a seemingly ordinary incident turned into a cautionary tale about home safety.

Maria Celino-Straker, a local resident, came home to a curious sight: a can of red beans left just outside her front door. Initially, she brushed it off as a childish prank or the work of a local fox. But this everyday occurrence took a startling turn when a relative, who is also a police officer, offered a different perspective.

The officer explained that such items, left at someone’s doorstep, could be more than just random litter. Thieves often use this tactic to check if a house is occupied. They leave food scraps or other objects and wait to see if they are removed.

If the items are cleared away, it signals that someone is home. If not, it might suggest the house is empty and an easier target for burglary.

This insight was eye-opening for Maria, who had never considered this possibility. Recognizing the potential danger of such a simple act, she took to Facebook to spread awareness. Her post was a reminder to stay vigilant and pay attention to the small, unusual things that happen around our homes.

This story is a vital lesson in home security, highlighting how easily we can overlook subtle signs of danger. Maria’s experience serves as a wake-up call to all of us to be more observant and cautious, ensuring the safety of our homes and loved ones.