With the holiday frenzy coming into full swing, you, like me, may be experiencing first-hand the inconvenience of increased traffic at the malls, in the grocery store check out lines and on the roadways. It seems as if everything takes a little bit longer this time of year. And while these time-eaters (coupled with our long holiday to-do lists) may have us feeling slightly preoccupied and rushed, it’s probably best that we slow down and pay attention to our surroundings. Because the more distracted we become, the more likely it is that we unintentionally pose ourselves as prospective targets for crime. Criminals are prone to victimize individuals whose observation is diverted. So in the midst of your comings and goings this season, remember to practice a few of the basics. These short steps will take you a long way when it comes to your own personal protection.
Keep your wallet, keys and personal belongings tightly concealed. If you have a purse, wear it in close proximity to your body with the zipper or opening facing inward. Tightly hold onto your shopping bags and refrain from putting them down too often as you continue browsing. Try not to weigh yourself down with packages so that you will have greater mobility and vision to avoid unnecessary mishaps. To keep your time in isolated parking lots to a minimum, ensure that you know exactly where your car keys are before leaving a store. As you exit a store, take a thorough look around you. Is the parking lot poorly lit? Is there someone nearby that causes you to feel the least bit insecure? Request that a security guard escort you to your vehicle to be on the safe side. Provided below are some additional tips to keep you from getting “grinched” this winter season.
HOME SAFETY
- Be sure to lock all doors and windows when leaving your home
- Do NOT display holiday gifts where they can be seen from outside of your home
- When leaving your home, turn on a radio and/or lights to give the impression that your home is occupied
- If you plan on going away for the holidays, have timers set up for interior lights and make sure that your outdoor motion sensor lights are working properly
- Have a neighbor, friend or relative check your home while gone
- Keep your yard tidy and have mail removed daily
- Store gifts away before leaving for holiday trips
- Check with your local law enforcement agency if they provide a “Vacation Check” program
- Be weary of strangers soliciting donations
- They may take advantage of your generosity during the holiday season
- Ask them for identification
- Ask where your donation will go
- Ask if your charitable donation is tax deductible
- Test your smoke detectors monthly
- Use only fire resistant ornaments on tree & make sure electric lights are functioning properly
- DO NOT leave ornamental lights on over-night or while away from home
- Avoid leaving boxes for large purchases (IE televisions, DVD players, stereos, computers) out on curb for trash pickup
- Break the boxes down and place inside trash bags
SHOPPING SAFETY
- Shop before dark if possible
- Coordinate all shopping trips with friend (Buddy System)
- NEVER park in unlit areas; no matter the convenience
- Lock your packages in your vehicle’s trunk
- If possible, move vehicle to different area in the parking lot to throw off “would-be” criminals watching shoppers drop off packages
- Keep vehicle’s doors/windows closed and locked at all times
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- Pay for purchases with checks, credit cards or debit cards when possible
- To discourage purse snatchers, do not overburden yourself with packages
- Have your car keys out and ready before leaving stores
- Be extra aware of your purse or wallet
- Carry a purse under your arm; keep your wallet in an inside jacket pocket or front pant pocket
CHILD SAFETY
- Keep your children within an arm’s length of you or your spouse when in crowded areas
- In the event of becoming separated from their parent/guardian, teach your child to “freeze” or “stop in place” immediately and scan the area for a you, then yell out their parent’s full name
- Teach your child that if separated to never go to the front of the store or into the parking lot
- If a clerk or security guard would like to help, ask them to announce your name or have them meet you at the location of separation
The sheriff asks you to report any suspicious activities by calling 911 or your local law enforcement agency immediately!
The Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office wishes you a safe and happy holiday! We look forward to continuing our work and service to you, our valued citizens, in the New Year.
