This holiday season, don’t let the spirit of giving lull you into giving burglars, muggers, and pickpockets a better chance to do their dirty work. Criminals love the holidays as much as everyone else, but chiefly because it’s an opportune time for crime. Managing editor Tami Roleff offers these holiday safety tips…
Homes are jam-packed with glittering gifts and stores, malls and streets are teeming with unsuspecting shoppers. Here are some tips on how to celebrate safely this holiday season:
If you’re out for the evening, turn on lights and a radio or TV, so it looks like someone’s home. Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s just for a few minutes. Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside. If you’re shopping, stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you. Park in a well-lighted space; and be sure to lock the car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible to deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. If a stranger comes to the door, be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. And it’s not uncommon for people to try to take advantage of others’ generosity during the holidays by going door-to-door for charitable donations when there’s no charity involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the funds will be used. Do your part to make the holidays a safe and happy time for everybody… except criminals.
