Be Safe this Holiday Season

The California Department of Justice just released some encouraging statistics. In the comparison of property crimes for a six month period from 2005 to 2006, major thefts dropped by about 18% and minor thefts dropped 2% in the unincorporated area. I believe part of this is due to the residents of our community being vigilant and reporting suspicious activity.

Now the holiday season is upon us and we want you to be safe, secure, and enjoy this special time of the year. This is a time when people are bustling around the county getting their gift shopping for loved ones. It can also be a time for shoplifting, increased thefts from vehicles, and increased thefts from home. The Sheriff’s Office and other county law enforcement agencies hope that you don’t become a victim.

To help ensure that you have a safe and crime-free holiday season, here are some crime prevention tips to keep you and your valuables safe and reduce your risk of becoming a victim:

Home Safety:

· Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even if just for a few minutes. Secure sliding glass doors and lock the door to an attached garage.

· Don’t put large displays of gifts in view of your windows or doors.

· When going on trips or out for the evenings, use automatic timers to turn on indoor lights to make it appear you are home.

· Have a trusted neighbor collect your mail and newspapers while you are away on vacation. You can also ask your neighbor to park their car in your driveway.

· After the holidays, mark your new gifts with your California Drivers License or ID Number. In many instances, police contact individuals with suspected stolen property that cannot be recovered or an arrest made because the owner failed to document or mark their valuables.

· After the holidays, don’t advertise your gifts by piling up the empty boxes to the new TV, DVD, computer, etc, in view of the street. Break the boxes down.

· Don’t leave spare house keys under mats, rocks, planters, or other obvious places.

· Be aware of suspicious persons or vehicles in your neighborhood and don’t be hesitant to report them to your local police. If possible, get an accurate description and/or license plate number.

 

Shopping Safety:

· Lock packages in the trunk.

· Park in well-lighted areas, as close to store entrances as possible. Be aware of persons in the parking lot, especially near your car.

· If you must shop in the evening, consider shopping with a friend or relative.

· Lock your car and make sure the windows are closed.

· Carry only the charge cards and cash that you will need.

· Keep a record of all your credit card numbers in a safe place at home so you can report stolen or lost cards by their number.

· Take credit card receipts with you. Don’t throw them in public trash containers.

· Carry your purse next to your body with the purse flap against you. Men should carry their wallets in front or inside pockets.

· Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t allow your attention to become distracted from your purse or packages.

· Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if they become separated in a store or shopping mall. Teach your child their full name, address, and phone number, if possible, to give to police or store security.

· If you have to wait for a ride, wait in a busy, well-lit location.

And another reminder while attending holiday parties, don’t drink and drive!

If you are a victim of a crime that just occurred, report it to the police immediately by calling 9-1-1. If you later discover you are a victim and not in immediate danger, residents living in the unincorporated area can call the Sheriff’s non-emergency phone number at 471- 1121 to make a police report.

Hopefully these tips will help you enjoy a safe and happy holiday season. Seasons Greetings to all from the Sheriff’s Office!