Full Notification

Many of us will be busy shopping and running errands during this time of year to prepare for the holiday season. We must not forget that criminals will also be out and about looking for easy targets. The best way to stay safe is to stay aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to people around you and be alert to things that just “don’t feel right.” Report any suspicious activity to store employees and law enforcement.

Here are some tips to help you celebrate safely this holiday season:

At Your Home

• Make sure all doors and windows have secondary locks (window pins, deadbolts, dowels, etc.) and use them!
• Don't hide spare keys in mailboxes or planters, or under doormats.
• Ensure that dark areas and entrances have outdoor lights that are turned on after dark or are activated by sensors.
• Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed so they do not conceal doors and windows. Remember, overgrown foliage can provide criminals with hiding places.
• Consider safe deposit boxes for coin and stamp collections, seldom-worn jewelry, stock bonds, etc. 
• Be sure to mail cards, checks or gift certificates from the Post Office or at a blue U.S. Postal Service collection box.
• Lock your vehicle and remove all the valuables. Yes, even in your driveway.

• Install an automatic timer for your lights.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and park in the driveway occasionally.
• Remember to stop mail and newspaper delivery. If they pile up, it’s a clear sign you're away.

• Turn on lights and the radio or TV to make it seem like somebody's home.
• Be especially careful about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if only for a few minutes.
• Don't display gifts where they can be seen from outside.

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
• Park in a well-lit area, and be sure to lock your car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
• Avoid carrying large sums of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don't overload yourself with packages. Be extra cautious with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not by the straps. Keep a wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.
• Only carry a minimal number of credit cards when shopping.
• Do not carry your Social Security Card or PIN numbers in your wallet or purse; leave these items in a secure place at home.
• Taking the extra time to close your purse and keep it with you while shopping or in public will reduce the chance of thieves taking your wallet and valuables.
• Shopping with kids? Teach them to find a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.
• When possible, walk to your car with someone or ask a store employee to accompany you, especially after dark.

• Use caution anytime there is a stranger at your door. 
• Be suspicious of unexpected sales calls or deliveries. Ask for identification.
• Be aware of scams that criminals commit to take advantage of people's generosity during the holidays. 
• Investigate charities before making donations. Ask how the funds will be used.  

•  Network with Neighbors
•  Have Packages Delivered to Work
•  Leave Specific Drop-off Instructions
•  Use a Smart Lock
•  Install Security Cameras

• Don't advertise expensive toys, electronics, or other gifts received by the boxes left for garbage collections. Compress large boxes and place them in black garbage bags for pick-up. 
• Add new items to your home inventory. Take photos or video of all items of value in your home and list each item's make, model, serial number and other information. 
• Engrave new items to help identify them in the event they are stolen.