The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and spending time with loved ones. However, it’s also a time when crime rates can increase, as criminals take advantage of the hustle and bustle to target vulnerable individuals and homes. By taking some simple precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for yourself and your community.

Home Security

• Secure your home: Make sure all doors and windows are locked, even when you’re at home. Consider installing a home security system or reinforcing existing locks.
• Don’t advertise your absence: Avoid posting about your travel plans on social media. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and newspapers while you’re away.
• Be cautious with deliveries: If you’re expecting packages, track their delivery or have them delivered to a secure location.
• Don’t leave valuables in plain sight: Keep gifts and expensive items out of view from windows and doors.
• Light up your home: Use timers to turn lights on and off while you’re away, creating the illusion that someone is home.

Shopping Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings while shopping, especially in crowded stores and parking lots.
• Protect your belongings: Keep your purse or wallet close to you and be mindful of pickpockets.
• Shop online safely: Use secure websites and be cautious of phishing scams and fraudulent emails.
• Park in well-lit areas: Choose parking spaces that are well-lit and close to the store entrance.
• Don’t leave valuables in your car: If you must leave valuables in your car, lock them in the trunk or out of sight.

Travel Safety

• Plan your trip in advance: Research your destination and make travel arrangements ahead of time.
• Share your itinerary with someone you trust: Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back.
• Be mindful of your belongings while traveling: Keep your luggage and valuables close to you at all times.
• Use reputable transportation services: Choose licensed taxis or ride-sharing services with good safety records.
• Stay in safe accommodations: Choose hotels or rentals in safe areas with good security measures.

Online Safety

• Be cautious with holiday emails and social media posts: Beware of phishing scams and fraudulent messages that may try to steal your personal information.
• Shop online securely: Use secure websites and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
• Protect your financial information: Monitor your bank accounts and credit card statements for any suspicious activity.
• Keep your software updated: Ensure your computer and mobile devices have the latest security updates to protect against malware and viruses.

Reporting Crimes to Crime Stoppers

If you witness or experience a crime during the holiday season, you can report it anonymously to Crime Stoppers. We will ensure that your information reaches the appropriate authorities without compromising your safety.

Remember, by taking some simple precautions and being aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season for yourself and your community.