Holiday Safety Tips

• Whether you are leaving the house to go shopping or out for an evening of Christmas parties, lock your doors and windows!.
• Don't leave the drapes open with your presents in plain view.
• It's better to scatter the gifts around the house, in closets or cupboards, where they can't be so easily seen.
• If you are leaving town for the holidays, make sure your home appears occupied. Leave inside and outside lights on timers and have your neighbor pick up newspapers, mail, and take flyers off your door.
• After Christmas, don't put out empty boxes advertising your new purchases. Break the boxes down and deposit them in your trash, recycle bin or dumpster away from your home.

• Use the trunk of your car to keep your packages out of sight.
• Don't overload yourself with packages.
• If you must shop in the evening, shop with a friend.
• Park in well-lighted areas, as close as possible to store entrances. Be particularly aware of persons in the parking lot, especially near your car.
• Lock you car and make sure the windows are closed.
• Carry only the charge cards you will need. Don't carry or flash large sums of cash.
• Carry your purse next to your body with the purse flap against you. Men should carry their wallets in front or inside pockets.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Don't allow your attention to become distracted from your purse or packages.
• Teach children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if you become separated in a store or shopping mall.
• Don't hesitate to notify store security if you see suspicious activity.
• If you have to wait for a ride, wait in a busy, well-lighted place.
• If you go to an automatic teller machine, try to do during daylight hours. If you must go at night, pick a machine that is well lighted and visible to passing traffic. If anyone is lurking near the machine, pass it up and find another.
• If you are a victim of a crime, report it to police immediately.

Just by using a little planning and some good common sense, most holiday crimes can be avoided.