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Happy Holidays 2006

Keep this holiday safe

By Gail Tierney
Published December 12, 2006

Not surprisingly, the holidays are times when crimes against people and property traditionally increase. And nothing can dampen the holiday spirit faster than becoming a victim of crime.

The following seasonal safety tips are offered to help reduce your chances of being victimized during the upcoming holiday season.

When you drive:

- Always park your vehicle as close to your destination as possible and in a well-lighted area.

- Never leave your vehicle unlocked or the windows open.

- Pick up major items at the end of a shopping trip, not the beginning.

- Lock your packages and other valuables in the trunk, or not in plain view.

- If you see suspicious activity or people in the area, don't approach your car alone. Ask mall or store security personnel for an escort before you leave your shopping location.

- When returning to your vehicle, have your keys in hand, ready to unlock the door.

- Before entering your vehicle, check inside and underneath for anyone who may be hiding there.

- Once inside your vehicle, lock the doors right away.

- Be responsible: Don't drink and drive. Always designate a nondrinking driver.

While you shop:

- Don't get caught up in the holiday rush and excitement. Always stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you.

- Walk with confidence and authority, and stay in well-lighted, well-traveled areas.

- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or flashing your money in public. Instead, pay for your purchases with credit cards, debit cards or checks.

- Find safety in numbers. Plan your shopping adventures with family or friends.

- If possible, leave small children at home with a responsible sitter. If children are with you when you shop, don't let their activities distract you. Be sure to keep a close eye on them at all times. Teach children to go to a store employee, security guard or law enforcement officer if they become lost or separated from you. Always accompany them into public restrooms.

- When holiday shopping, wear conservative, comfortable clothing and minimal jewelry. Thieves and pickpockets are more likely to be attracted to those who wear expensive clothing and jewelry.

- Make frequent trips to your vehicle to stow packages in the trunk or out of sight. Don't become a tempting target by overburdening yourself with packages, and never leave your parcels unattended.

- If you carry a purse, keep it in front of you and close to your body, or consider wearing a fanny pack in the front to deter purse-snatchers. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart or on a counter while you pay for your purchases. If you carry a change purse or wallet, keep it in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

At home:

- Always lock doors and windows when you leave the house, even if it's only for a few minutes.

- Don't leave cash lying around the house. Keep it in a secure place.

- Never display your wrapped or unwrapped holiday gifts where they can be seen from outside.

- Avoid advertising your new gifts to would-be thieves. Break up packing boxes, especially for purchases like TVs, computers and cameras, and place them inside garbage bags for pickup.

Remember, use good common sense, take precautions to protect yourself and your property and make this holiday season your safest ever.

Gail Tierney is the public information officer for the Citrus County Sheriff's Office. She has been with the agency for 16 years. Gail can be reached at 726-4488, ext. 311 or e-mail to gtierney@sheriffcitrus.org.

[Last modified December 12, 2006, 06:12:12]