The Hinesville Police Department is helping residents keep burglars at bay this holiday by introducing a crime prevention initiative called Trash Collection for Your Protection.

“Everyone loves to get that new television for Christmas, but when you place the empty box on the curb outside of your home, you don’t realize that you are flashing an advertisement to burglars,” Police Chief George Stagmeier said.

To help, a dumpster has been placed at the intersection of Highway 84 and Frasier Drive across in the parking lot of the old hospital for citizens to drop off empty holiday gift boxes. The dumpster was placed Friday and will remain available until Dec. 29.

Christmas trees, household garbage, yard waste or other such items are not allowed. For more information, call HPD at 912-368-8211.