Driving
- Avoid driving alone or at night.
- Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.
- 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.
- Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
- Do not leave packages on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation
for thieves.
- When approaching and 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 police station,
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
- 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
of your surroundings.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- 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.
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.
- Place your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green.
- Never place wrapping paper in your fireplace.
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.
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