MPD Offers Safety Tips for This Holiday Season

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Caution, common sense and vigilance. These are the Montgomery Police Department’s watchwords to help protect property and ensure personal safety during the busy holiday season.

MPD will be working throughout the holidays to safeguard the public and offers these safety pointers:

If you are shopping:

• Although you may be rushed and distracted, stay alert to your surroundings.

• Avoid carrying and displaying large amounts of cash. Keep only the amount of cash needed for your errands, and secure it in your front pocket.

• Pay for purchases with a check, credit or debit card when possible.

• Use ATM machines in populated and well-lighted areas; pay attention to activities around you.

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

• Park in a well-lighted space and be sure to lock your vehicle, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.

• When returning to your vehicle or home, keep your keys in your hand, ready to open the door.

• Always lock your vehicle. Never leave it running and unattended.

• Before entering your vehicle, carefully check the front and rear seats and floors for anyone that may be hiding inside. Lock your doors immediately after entering the vehicle.

• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible. If you choose to carry a purse, carry it close to your body and not dangling by the straps.

• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, would-be thieves may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

• 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.

• Dress casually and comfortably.

• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

 

If you are out for the evening:

• Turn on lights, along with a radio or TV, so your home appears occupied.

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside your home.

If you are shopping online:

• Check OnGuardOnline.gov for helpful information that protects your personal and financial information.

If you are traveling away from home during the holidays:

• Call 3-1- 1 or 240-4636 to schedule Montgomery Police Department home safety and security checks in your absence.

• Notified trusted neighbors or your Neighborhood Watch that you will be away and ask them to keep an eye on your residence.

• Use common sense when posting your status on social networking sites to avoid advertising that you’re away from home.