The holiday season is upon us. Nationally, crime spikes over the holidays as it is dark earlier, homes fill with gifts, and activities take us away from our homes more often.  Please make sure to secure your property and protect yourself and your family while you are away from home.  Below are precautionary steps to follow:

Watch out for social media and Phone Scams

Be very careful about what you post. Do not share travel plans or schedule, as you never know who is reading this.  Pass this tip onto your children. Also, beware of identity theft as well; protect your personal information online, over the telephone, or when out in public.

If someone requests a gift card or wire transfer for payment, or sends an unsolicited verification code, THIS IS LIKELY A SCAM!

Legitimate businesses will not send texts, email or an unsolicited verification code requesting personal information or money transfers. If you are unsure, call the business and ask for clarification OR call the police for assistance.

Doors, Windows, and Locks

Be sure your doors are locked, including the door from the garage into the house, as many burglaries occur through an unlocked door or window.

Light it up!

Thieves do not want to be seen. Exterior lights on all sides of your home (especially motion activated) are a great deterrent to intruders. Use automatic timers to control lights in your home.

Know Your Neighbors

Neighbors watching out for neighbors is the best crime deterrent imaginable! Encourage your neighbors to report suspicious behavior.

Mail, papers, and deliveries

When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up mail and newspapers. Cancel or re-direct to a safe location all deliveries.

Close Those Curtains!

Holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

Remember: "Never Unlocked, Nothing in View" & Never Drink & Drive

Lock your vehicle, hide any packages or possessions and be sure to Take your Keys. This is as important at home as well as when you are away. 

Never Drink and Drive! Eat before consuming alcoholic beverages, remember only time will eliminate alcohol from the body, know your safe limit, and always have a designated driver.

Know your surroundings!

Always be aware of surroundings and ask for an escort or go to a public or well-lit place, and dial 9-1-1, if you feel suspicious of anyone.

Children

Never allow children to return to the vehicle alone and they should never be left unattended in a vehicle. Teach your children their full name, address and/or telephone number should they get lost or separated from you.  

Have a Safe and Wonderful Holiday Season!!

Prevent Winter Holiday Fires with these tips (inforgraphic)