The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday related crimes. We can never be too careful, too prepared, or too aware. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors.
At Home -
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
• When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspaper and mail.
• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
• Leave a radio or television on so the house appears occupied.
• Large displays or holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
• When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday displays, make sure doors and passageways are clear.
• Place your live Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green and healthy, to help prevent it from getting dry enough to become a fire hazard.
Strangers at Your Door -
• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
• Ask for their identification. If you are not satisfied, do not donate. Ask them to kindly leave and then donate to a recognized charitable organization like Maryvale!
Driving -
• Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
• If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area.
• Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars 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 car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
• Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels.
Shopping -
• If you must use an ATM to withdraw cash for shopping, choose one that is located inside a police station, mall, or well-lighted location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Always carry your California Drivers License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card whenever possible.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen, or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other public transit systems.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
Children -
• If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
• Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
• Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.