Full Notification

Holiday Shopping Tips

1) Do not leave purchased items visible in the car-leave them in the trunk. Ensure cell phones and GPS devices are secured in the car, out of sight.

2) While shopping in the evening hours may be less crowded, there are also additional potential risks involved. Park in areas of parking lots that have adequate lighting. Consider shopping with someone rather than going alone.

3) Make sure purses and wallets are secure on your person and you are aware of their location at all times.

4) Keep the amount of available cash you have at a minimum or separate it into different pockets or locations on or about your person. This way all of it is not lost if your purse or wallet is misplaced or stolen.

5) Credit cards offer convenience and security, however, keep track of all cards and keep receipts to compare to your monthly statement.

6) Remain aware of your surroundings at all times and move to and from your vehicle with confidence and "purpose". Have keys or remote door openers ready beforegetting to your car so you do not have to search for them while standing near it. Do not approach your car if there is suspicious activity or people near it--instead summon store security or dial 911!

7) Report suspicious people or activity to law enforcement immediately! Non-emergencies should be reported to 852-COPS, emergencies to 911.


The Suffolk County Fifth Precinct provides the following tips on home safety while you are out of town for the holidays:

1) Create an up-to-date home inventory including make, model, serial numbers, other detailed descriptions, and photographs of items of value in your home (including jewelry).

2) Consider setting a light timers to turn the lights and TV or radio on and off in a logical sequence when away for an extended time period to give the appearance that someone is home.

3) The motion detector or other alarm system (if you have one) should be activated when you leave home.

4) Mail and newspaper deliveries should be stopped or arrangements for a neighbor/friend to pick them up should be made when you are away from home for a period of time.

5) Ask a trusted neighbor to tend the yard, shovel the snow, and watch your home when you are away or have a trusted friend or relative house sit in your absence.

6) Make sure all doors and windows are locked when you leave, even if you have an alarm system.

7) You are the best resource the Police Department has to prevent crime. Join the Neighborhood Watch group in your area, or if one doesn't exist--consider forming one. Report all suspicious behavior immediately to 852-COPS, and emergencies to 911.

Best wishes from the men and women of the Fifth Precinct for a safe an happy holiday season!