During the holidays, many residents will be leaving their homes or businesses for an extended period of time. Here are some helpful tips to remember before leaving for the holidays:

Make sure all doors and windows are properly secured. When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail. If you choose to leave items of high value in your residence, make sure that you have recorded the serial numbers. It is recommended that you mark or engrave your property with your driver’s license number, so that it can be identified as your property.

Display of valuables should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home. Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer. A radio or television should also be left on a timer so the house looks and sounds occupied. Register for a vacation watch with the Police Department if your residence will be unoccupied for an extended period during the holiday season. We will check your home periodically. If you leave your vehicle parked at or away from your residence during the holidays, remember to:

• Park your vehicle in an area that is visible to the public and well-lit at night.
• Secure all doors and windows.
• Remove all valuables or secure them out of sight.
• If your vehicle has built-in security, use it.
• When leaving for a holiday or vacation, do not pack your car the night before. It only makes a more attractive target for a thief.

Holiday Crime Prevention Tips for the Workplace:

The holiday season is a busy time of the year for family and friends. Unfortunately, burglars like the festive holidays because there are more opportunities for them to steal. Here are some helpful hints to consider before leaving your workplace for the holidays:

• All inner office doors and building exterior doors should be closed and locked.
• Do not prop open an exterior door if working after hours.
• Personnel working during the holidays should be aware of their personal safety. Let someone know where you are and when you are expected to return.
• All portable equipment, tools and PC computers should be secured or locked away.
• Close and secure all windows. An unlocked window makes easy access to the building.
• All valuable personal items should be taken home.
• Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized personnel immediately to the Police Department by calling 911.

Holiday Crime Prevention Tips While Shopping:

• Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
• Shop with a friend; there is safety in numbers.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check, credit or debit card.
• If possible, carry only your driver’s license, personal checks, or necessary credit or debit cards.
• If you must carry a purse, do not wrap the straps around your arms or shoulders. Carry a clutch purse tightly under your arm.
• Do not carry a wallet in a back pocket. It should be placed in a front pocket of your pants for safety.
• Be alert that crooks look for the “high-dollar” shopping bags with your purchases. When possible, slip bags/purchases in a plain nondescript bag.
• Watch purchases while eating in mall food courts; bags can easily be switched or taken.
• Educate your children about what to do if they are lost.
• Don’t overburden yourself with too many packages. Use the store’s package pick-up. Have your car keys ready in hand before leaving the store.
• If you do return to your vehicle to unload purchases, place them in the trunk of the vehicle.
• Try not to shop until the store closes. Remember, fewer people are present at closing time.
• Educate your children to never go anywhere with a stranger.

Holiday Crime Prevention Tips in Parking Lots:

• Shop early and leave early to avoid evening darkness.
• Park in a high visibility area and check for lighting in case you leave during hours of darkness.
• Do not park next to a vehicle with dark tinted windows.
• Prior to arriving at the shopping center, lock all your valuables in the trunk of your vehicle.
• Leave the store with others, not alone.
• Ask security to escort you to your vehicle if you feel uncomfortable.
• Walk briskly, confidently, and directly through the parking lot. Be cautious of people handing out fliers or asking questions in the parking area.
• Watch for people who may be following you. This can occur inside as well as outside.
• If you suspect someone following you, report it to security immediately.

Holiday Crime Prevention Tips at Home:

• Keep the outside of your home well-lit with doors locked and window curtains closed.
• Don’t display gifts beneath the Christmas tree that can be seen from windows or doors.
• After the holidays, don’t advertise gifts received by the boxes left for the garbage collection. Destroy boxes and place in a sealed, non-clear garbage bag.