How to Stay Out of the Police Blotter This Holiday Season

Police are too polite to say this outright, so I'll say it for them: A lot of those blotter reports we read during the holiday season could be avoided with a little common sense.

Following these crime prevention measures will help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Shopping

• Park in a well-lit and well-traveled area, lock your doors, and remember where you parked.
• Do not leave packages or any other valuables visible from the outside of your vehicle.
• Lock valuables in your trunk or if possible take them directly home.
• Never leave your vehicle unattended with children inside or while it is running.
• Deter pickpockets by carrying your purse close to your body or your wallet inside of a coat or front trouser pocket. Never leave your purse unattended or outside of your view.
• Carry only the credit cards that you need and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Remain vigilant to your surroundings especially when leaving or approaching your vehicle.
• If you are shopping with children, make a plan in the event you become separated. 

Internet Shopping

• Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Do not reply to requests to verify your credit card information or password. 
• Beware of "bargains" from companies with that you are unfamiliar. If it sounds "too good to be true’" then it probably is "too good to be true."
• Shop with companies that you know and trust. If you are considering buying from companies that you do not know do background research to try to determine their legitimacy. 
• Use secure websites for purchases. Look for the icon of a locked padlock at the bottom of the screen or "https" in the URL address.

At Home

• Keep a record of your credit card numbers in a safe location. Report lost or stolen credit cards immediately to the bank or card issuer.
• When leaving your home make sure to lock all of your windows and doors (garage too).
• Avoid placing large or expensive items in view from windows and doors.
• If you are traveling for an extended period of time over the holidays, have a friend or neighbor watch your home. Also, have them collect all mail and newspapers.
• Use timers to illuminate your home or television so that it appears the home is occupied.
• Be aware of scams where criminals are taking advantage of your generosity during this season. (Check out www.charitynavigator.org as a database to confirm the legitimacy of charitable organizations.)

For other great tips visit the National Crime Prevention Council at www.ncpc.org.