Holiday Safety
Holiday Safety Tips
The holiday season is always a special time of year.
We can never be to careful, to prepared or to aware.
Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors.
The Vanceboro Police Department wishes you a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season.
-Driving
*Avoid driving alone or at night.
*Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.
*Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
*If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
*Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
*Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
*Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
*Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
*Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
*Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
*When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
*Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
*Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
-Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
*If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a mall, or well-lighted location. *Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
*Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
*Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
Shopping
*Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
*Dress casually and comfortably.
*Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
*Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
*Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
*Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
*Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
*Keep cash in your front pocket.
*Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
*Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
*Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
*Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
-Children
*If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
*Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
*Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
*Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
*Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
*Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
-At Home
*Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
*When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
*Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
*Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
*Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
*When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.
*Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.
*If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed. Frayed or damaged wiring can cause a fire.
-Strangers at Your Door
*Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
*It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.
*Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not donate.
*Donate to a recognized charitable organization.
We hope these tips help you throughout the holiday season! As always, be safe and have a wonderful holiday!
Be safe,
Chief James Jenkins
www.vbopd.com
