Statistics prove there is an increase in crime around the holidays. Using some simple crime prevention strategies when shopping for holiday gifts can thwart a crook's holiday plans -- at least at your expense.
For instance, park in well lighted areas, preferably within close distance to the store or mall where you intend to shop. Never carry large amounts of cash; use your checkbook, credit or debit cards to make most of your holiday purchases. Don't carry your automatic teller machine or other debit card with your personal identification number. If carrying a purse, carry it on the inside of your arm, on the side that is furthest from the street. Inside coat pockets are an excellent location to carry wallets or checkbooks.
Let someone know where you are going shopping and what time you expect to return. Shopping with a friend is a relaxing, fun method of increasing your personal safety while you shop. Avoid known trouble spots when you shop. Sometimes its better to put off some shopping trips until the weekend, to do some of your shopping in the daylight.
If you think you are being followed in a shopping center, find a store's security guard or manager and advise them of your concerns. Many stores and malls employ additional security people, including off-duty police officers, during the holiday season to increase the safety of their customers.
If you think you are being followed in your car, drive to the local police station or use a cellular telephone, if available. If a robber approaches you, remain calm and give up the items the robber wants. Nothing you are carrying is worth risking your life or safety.
If traveling, keep your plans quiet before you go. Only people needing to know should be informed of your holiday travel plans. There will be plenty of time to tell them of the wonderful time you had after you get back.
Ideally, you should consider placing your jewelry and important documents, including a backup of any computer files, in a safety deposit box at a bank. Other valuables and firearms should be out of view, and locked away. A home safe is a good investment for this purpose.
Arrange to have mail and newspaper deliveries either stopped or picked up by a trusted friend. Schedule someone to check on your home periodically and to shovel snow, cut grass or perform other work to avoid having the "on vacation" look.
Your telephone's ringer should be turned down to it's lowest setting to avoid being heard ringing from outside. An answering machine with a message that is noncommittal as to whether anyone is home, and when to expect a return call, is best. Electronic timers that turn radios, televisions, and lights on and off add to the appearance of an occupied home. Alarm systems are a good investment for year-round protection of your home.
Before leaving, ask your local police department to place your home on their vacation watch list. If someone will be checking on your home during your absence, pass this information along to the police. Do a last walk around to insure all your timers are set, and that all doors and windows are securely locked before departing.
When you return home, do a quick check around the exterior of your house to make sure everything is in order. If you see something that looks out of place, go to a neighbor and call the police.
Taking these few extra precautions will help insure you don't become a victim to a "Grinch" waiting to spoil your holiday fun.