The holidays should be a joyous time of the year, but they are this is also the season for burglars and pickpockets drawn to presents and cash. The local District E-13 Police Station offers the following tips to avoid holiday crime:
When shopping, walk confidently and be alert to people around you.
Dress down while shopping instead of wearing expensive clothing and jewelry, which attracts thieves.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use a check or credit cards whenever possible.
Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Carry a wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.
Always lock your vehicle and put packages in the trunk. Any items of value, including spare change, CDs and GPS devices, should be hidden out of sight when the vehicle is parked.
Never leave your vehicle running while you go inside your home or a store, even for a minute.
When returning to your vehicle or home with packages, have your keys ready and get inside as quickly as possible and lock the doors.
Make an inventory of valuable property, including photos or videos, descriptions and serial numbers. In case of burglary, the inventory will make it easier to file an insurance claim and for police to possibly recover stolen property.
Information courtesy District E-13 Police Station Community Service Office.