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A Few Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season
 
With the holiday season in full swing and, due to an unsettling rise in scams and robberies the City of San Leandro has experienced recently, the San Leandro Police Department would like to take this opportunity to remind our community of a few crime prevention tips.  These tips are part of our ongoing commitment to keep San Leandro safe for those who live, work, and play in our city. Remember, criminals will not be taking days off during this holiday season.  However, just by increasing your awareness, about what criminals may be looking for, may keep you and your family from becoming targets or victims of crime.  Preventing crime is often as simple as realizing that it can happen to you and taking basic precautions to prevent it from happening.  Here are a few tips to help you safely celebrate this holiday season: 
 
Holiday Shopping…

• It is important to watch where you are going and to be aware of your surroundings.  Do not walk and text or use your cell phone/smart phone as cell phone and purse thefts are on the rise.
• Don’t leave packages in plain view in your vehicle – put them in your trunk before you get to your location.
• If you will not be home for deliveries, have your items delivered to a neighbor who will be home or to your office.
• Hold on to your money:  Always carry your purse tucked tightly under your arm or don’t carry one at all.  Put your money and only necessary cards in your front pants pocket where it is harder for a criminal to get at them. 
• Don’t park in a secluded or dark area of the parking lot.  Be patient and courteous while parking. 
• Try not to be the last to leave the store. Leave when the stores are still open, and the parking lot is full of shoppers.
• When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings.  Don’t not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people standing by.  Ask mall security or store security for an escort before leaving the shopping location
• Shopping with kids?  Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if separated.

Holiday Travel…

• Get an automatic timer for the lights in your home.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and perhaps park a vehicle in your driveway.
• Have a neighbor or family member pickup newspaper and mail deliveries.

 
When You Are Out for The Evening…

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks and sounds like somebody is home.
• Lock doors and windows even if you leave for just a few minutes.
• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

 
Should you become a victim of a crime, witness suspicious behavior or any possibility that a crime is or may be in progress, please immediately call 9-1-1.  Otherwise, any other concern should be directed to the San Leandro Police Department non-emergency number at (510) 577-2740. Lastly, the members of the San Leandro Police Department bid everyone peace and joy this holiday season.  Please remain vigilant and enjoy this special time of year.

Happy Holidays.