Holiday Season Safety
Holidays are great times for family and friends to meet together and share in the spirit of thanksgiving and service. However, for many people, holidays also are a time for crime. It has statistically been shown that holidays bring with it an increase in criminal occurrences.
Most police officers will agree that holiday season is the worst period for fraud related activity. Criminal activity normally starts to increase the week of Thanksgiving, peaks during mid-December, and dies down the month of January.
Many critics feel that the spike in crime will be worse the next few years. The reason lies in the reality of the poor economy. Many people have been laid off or have seen a decrease in work-loads, and statistically that produces less and less ethical choices.
Protect your house from break-ins as well. An increase in break-ins also happens during the holidays. (If you subscribe) alert your alarm provider prior to taking any holiday trips and visits, so they can keep alert to an extended empty house.
Holidays are great and people look forward to them every year. However, for a lot of criminals this also is a popular season. Here are some tips to keep in mind as you prepare for the holiday season and we wish you a safe and happy time!
* Be cautious while driving alone at night.
* Keep all doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your vehicle.
* Never park next to large vehicles or vehicles with heavy tinted windows.
* Park in well lighted areas.
* Never leave your vehicle unattended with children inside or while it is running.
* Do not leave gifts or other valuables in plain sight in your vehicle; it is an unnecessary temptation for thieves.
* Be aware of your surroundings when approaching or leaving your vehicle.
* If security is available, ask for an escort to your vehicle if leaving at night and alone.
* Be aware of your surroundings.
* Minimize shopping at night or alone.
* Avoid carrying large of amounts of cash. Take only the cash you need or pay with a credit card.
* If you must use an ATM, use one inside or a well-populated building or a well-lit area. Only withdraw the amount of cash that you will need for that day.
* Protect your PIN from view of other people near the ATM.
* Keep record of all your credit card numbers at home in a safe location. Report lost or stolen credit cards immediately.
* Be extra careful when carrying a wallet or purse; only carry what you absolutely need in them. They are prime targets for criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, and bus stops.
* Avoid overloading yourself with packages whether on your person or in your vehicle.
At Home
* Be aware that sometimes criminals will pose as couriers delivering gifts to case your home or commit a crime immediately.
* Be aware of scams that criminals commit to take advantage of people's generosity during the holidays.
* Be cautious about locking your windows and doors even when you leave the house for a short period of time.
* When you leave your home for extended holiday travel, have a neighbor or friend watch your home while you're away. Have them collect your mail and newspapers while you're gone.
* Place lights, radio, and television on timers so that your home appears occupied.
* Avoid having large displays of gifts visible from windows and doors.
