CHEVY CHASE, Md. – Police are warning residents to be careful when opening their door, following recent home invasions.

“It just makes common sense these days to be aware that there are people out there that may want to do bad things,” said John M. Fitzgerald, chief of police for Chevy Chase Village.

Fitzgerald says safety starts before the knock on the door. Lock doors and windows even while home, Fitzgerald advised.

When someone unexpected comes knocking, it is important to remember that not opening the door is an option.

“If it’s someone that you don’t know, you can just decline and say