Enjoy The Holiday Bustle – But Be Aware
The end-of-year holiday season – with all its hustle and bustle – is fast approaching. With all the distractions and activity, we sometimes forget the basics for maintaining our safety while holiday shopping. Opportunity is the criminal’s key to crime. By staying alert and following a few crime prevention tips, you can ensure a holiday season that is both happy and safe.
A primary factor in crime prevention is being aware of yur surroundings and potential areas of danger, thereby closing the criminal’s keyhole of opportunity.
Busy shoppers can be targeted for purse snatching and other forms of street robbery. Unfortunately, there have been several purse snatchings reported at area shopping malls within the past month. The malls are full of folks with money to spend during the holiday season. As we speed along, focused on getting through our treasure hunt, a criminal can size up a potential victim.
? Outside of the mall, stick to well-lit, well-traveled streets, walkways and parking areas – for both walking and parking.
? Don’t flash large amounts of cash or offer tempting targets for theft such as expensive jewelry or clothing.
? Carry a purse or shoulder bag close to your body, not dangling by straps. Put a wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or front pants pocket.
? Don’t fumble for house or car keys. Have them in your hand, ready to use when you reach the door.
A Holiday Shopping Reminder
As you do your holiday shopping, don’t give a thief an opportunity.
Do NOT leave valuables in open view in your car. Put them in the trunk, or take them along with you. This is the time of the year when thieves do their own form of “window shopping.” They look into parked cars for gifts and other merchandise, and they will break through car windows to get at such valuables.
It takes only a few seconds for a criminal to break into your car. So remember: when you leave your car, leave it empty.
