Holiday Crime Suppression Detail Will Help Protect Dublin Residents and Their Property, Police Say

DUBLIN, CA — Police officers will be out in force in Dublin over the next few weeks in an effort to curtail criminal activity commonly reported throughout the holiday season. 'Tis the season for thefts and in addition to stepped-up enforcement efforts, police have released the following tips to help residents protect themselves and their property:

* When shopping, park your car in a well-lit area.
* Do not leave packages, shopping bags or valuables in plain view inside your car.
* Lock your packages, gifts, and valuables in your vehicle's trunk. If your car does not have a trunk, be sure that valuables are out of sight or concealed so they cannot be easily identified.
* While inside stores, never place packages on floors or counters or leave them unattended when purchasing additional items.
* Parked cars should have all windows tightly closed and all doors locked. Always have your car keys readily available in your hand before you walk to your car, and scan interior of car to be sure no one is hiding inside.
* Always be aware of your surroundings. Be cautious of strangers approaching you for any reason. Criminals may try various methods of distraction with the intent of taking money or belongings.
* As you walk to your car, do not get distracted by texting or talking on your phone.
* Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Whenever possible, pay for purchases with checks or credit cards.

The number of property crimes — home burglaries, car burglaries, packages stolen from doorsteps — in the East Bay has soared over the past two years, frustrating residents and prompting police departments to urge everyone to “call early and often” if something seems amiss.

Related:

• Pleasanton Police Warn: Thefts On the Rise, Lock Up!
  
• Stolen Car Stuffed with Stolen Property Found in Livermore Walmart Parking Lot: Police
  
• Man Suspected in Danville Burglary Caught on Camera, Police Say
• Amazon Package Stolen from Castro Valley Porch, Victim Says

Photo via Shutterstock

Patch Editor Bea Karnes contributed to this report