Be Aware of Surroundings this Time of Year

Tis the SEASON…fun, joy and unfortunately CRIME:

As many of you know this is the time of year when crime rates rise. We hear about it on the news and through our friends and family who may have fallen victim. It is even more prevalent in these hard economic times.

Tips on crime prevention this holiday season:

Always contact your local police department for more detailed ways to avoid crime.

HOME
· Lock all windows and doors in your home at all times, even if you are stepping out for just a few minutes.

· Keep blinds closed when you are not home.

· Change your routine frequently by leaving and arriving at different times.

· Always set your intrusion alarms even when they are not monitored by the police.
When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

VEHICLE 

·Lock alls doors and keep windows completely closed at all times. 

· Never leave your car running unattended while you make a quick stop or just want to warm it up from the cold temps.

· Never leave valuable items visible in your car (coats, handbags, wallets, CD’s, DVD’s, iPods, cell phones, jewelry or money). These are an INVITATION to become a victim.

· Avoid drive thru or walk up ATM machines when possible.

PERSON
· No matter where you are always pay attention to your surroundings.

· Trust you instinct if you have a bad feeling act on it.

· If you are going to be alone let someone know where you are headed, when you are leaving and that you arrived safely.

· Make copies of each of your credit cards front and back as well as your driver’s license and keep record in a safe place. This is extremely helpful in the event your purse or wallet is stolen.

· Never carry large amounts of cash or let others see you pulling it in and out of your purse or wallet.

· Try to travel in pairs or groups whenever possible.

SHOPPING
Shopping during the holiday season can present unique danger. Taking a few preventative measures can help keep your holiday season joyous. The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime.
Avoid driving alone or at night.
Keep all vehicle doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your vehicle. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or vehicle with tinted windows.
Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your vehicle. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the vehicle, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight. However, keep in mind that especially this time of year thieves are watching parking areas of shopping centers and can still break into your trunk if they see you put valuables inside. It is always best to have the individual store hold your purchase until you have completed all of your shopping and are ready to leave.
Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your vehicle.
Never talk on your cell phone when walking to your vehicle; you must always pay attention to your surroundings.
Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
Do not approach your vehicle alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.