During the days before the holidays, you will have more valuables in your home than usual. Remember that you aren’t the only one doing your holiday shopping at this time of year. Burglars and thieves are always on the lookout for a good “bargain” too. Protect your home, yourself and your family. Take a moment to go over some safety tips before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
At Home
- Don’t leave cash lying around the house. Keep all money in a safe place.
- Never hide presents in the garage! Garage locks are usually the weakest locks you have. A second story closet or attic equipped with a good lock is usually your safest storage area.
- Break up boxes, especially for purchases like TV’s, stereos, or electronic equipment and put them in garbage bags.
- Make sure your homeowners (or renters) insurance is up-to-date and everything is inventoried properly. Operation I.D. is a great way to inventory your home.
When Shopping
- The tendency to carry large amounts of cash is greater during the holidays than any other season of the year. Use checks or credit cards whenever possible.
- Plan your shopping so that you only take approximately the amount of money you’re going to spend.
- Don’t flash your money in public. Keep your bills flat in a wallet so that you can count them without taking them out of your wallet.
- Don’t carry a purse. Keep your wallet and keys in your coat pocket.
- Pick up major items at the end, rather than the beginning of a shopping trip.
- Park in well-lighted spaces, as close to the store as possible.
Traveling for the holidays
- If you leave home for the holidays, especially for any length of time, check with your local law enforcement agency to see if they offer a house watch.
- Set an automatic timer for your lights.
- Ask your neighbor to watch your home, shovel the walks, pick up newspapers, collect mail, and park in the driveway from time to time to make the house look lived in.
Have a healthy, safe and happy holiday!