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11/20/06 |
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“THINK ABOUT YOUR SAFETY” DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON The busy holiday shopping days are here, and the Peoria Police Department has some safety reminders to help you enjoy the holidays. HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS Vehicle /parking lot safety • Never leave items in your vehicle that are visible to the public. Mall parking garages and lots are favorite targets of the opportunistic thief. Stow away items such as gifts in the trunk of your vehicle. If you have an SUV, cover these items with an old blanket or sheet. • Park your vehicle in a well-lit area and be cognizant of your surroundings. Have your keys out and ready before you get to your car. • Look your car over as you approach it to make sure everything is OK. • Pay attention to your surrounding and if not you are not comfortable go back to the store or mall and ask their security to escort you to your car. • Carry a cell phone with you and be prepared to call the Police in case of an emergency. • Write down where you park your car and the entrance you used, especially at the malls, so you can go directly to your car and not have to wander the parking lot looking for your car. You’ll be distracted and this makes you an easy victim. Shopping Safety • Carry only the credit cards that you intend to use and avoid carrying large sums of money. • Use ATM machines that are in well-lit safe environments. Avoid using ATM’s that are located in malls. Pickpockets normally work these areas looking for people withdrawing large sums of cash. • Thieves often target food courts. Don’t leave handbags, gifts, etc. unattended. • Shopping in pairs will minimize your risk of being a crime victim. • Secure your credit card receipts. Someone gaining access to your credit card numbers could be the first step in having your identity stolen. • Women carrying purses should carry them tucked tightly under their arm or better yet use a fanny pack. • Men should carry their wallet in their front pocket. • Always pay attention to your surroundings. A person paying attention and moving with a purpose is less likely to become a victim. Around Your Home • When you are away from your house make sure all the doors and windows are locked • Don’t let any delivery people inside your house. • Make sure you house is well lit at night. Bad guys don’t like light. • If you’re going away, set lights on timers and have your mail and newspapers picked up by a neighbor. • Do not place the boxes from expensive or audio/video equipment gifts outside to be picked up. Cut them up and place them inside your garbage can. • Report any suspicious persons or vehicles in your neighborhood to the police. The men and women of the Peoria Police Department would like to wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season! ### |
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"Our Community, Our Commitment" |
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