San Mateo Sheriff's Office: Don't Become A 'Holiday Crime' Victim

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — The holiday season is here and it also happens to be a time when people are busy planning all of their festivities that they tend to lower their guard, become distracted and become a “holiday crime victim.”

The unfortunate reality is that during this season thefts, scams and violent crime generally increase. Vehicle collisions generally rise due to the change in weather conditions, distracted driving, as well as driving while intoxicated.

The San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office would like to share with you these common Holiday Season Safety Tips to ensure you and your loved ones have a happy and safe season:

• Park near your destination and never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
• If shopping at night, park in a well-lit area and avoid parking next to large trucks and vans. Do not leave packages or valuables visible on the seats of your car.
• Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
• If you need to use an ATM, choose one that is located in a well-lighted and populated location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need. But most important be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses, and other forms of public transit.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists and scammers may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
• Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
• Advise your children not to advertise/post on social media your holiday plans, such as leaving on a family trip for the holidays or post photographs of all the gifts under the tree.
• It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.
• If you are attending holiday parties, please NEVER drink and drive. Find a safe way home, such as a taxi or designated driver.
• Beware of package thieves known as “porch pirates”. It is best to have your delivered purchases arrive at your home during the weekend, when someone is most likely at home. Or arrange to have them delivered to a neighbor that will be home or simply pick up your package at the company’s headquarters.
• lastly, please report all suspicious activities as they are occurring. Don’t wait to report it at a later time. Please remember to be safe about it and don’t put yourself in any potential danger.

On behalf of Sheriff Carlos G. Bolanos and the rest of the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office, we wish you a happy and safe season.

— SUBMITTED FOR PUBLICATION BY: San Mateo County Sheriff's Office / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone