Basic Crime Prevention

• Stay alert. Be mindful of your surroundings.

Shopping Safety Tips

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry when you do your holiday shopping. You make yourself a target for thieves.
• When possible, shop during the day, rather than at night. If you must shop at night, use the buddy system (take a friend or relative with you).
• Do not carry large sums of cash with you at any time. Use your credit cards or checks. They can be canceled and replaced if stolen. If you must carry cash, do not display it in public.
• Purses should be carried close to the body, under an exterior garment (if possible). Flaps should be secured and turned towards the body at all times. Wallets should be carried in an inside coat pocket and cash in a front pants pocket. A rubber band can be wrapped around a wallet to increase friction and make it easier to detect if you are being pick-pocketed.
• Never allow children to go to the restroom alone.

Vehicle/Parking Lot Tips

• Park in well-lighted areas and lock your doors, no matter how long you’ll be gone.
• When parking or returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand, make eye contact with people around you, and beware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave holiday packages or valuables in plain view in your vehicle. Put them in the trunk.
• Drive with all doors locked and windows rolled up.