With the holiday season here, safety is one thing we should all have on our minds.  Often, we don’t think about it enough.

The Fishers Police Department has offered a list of safety tips to consider during the holidays.  They are worth your time to review…

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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 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 near 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

·         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.

·         Only carry necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.

·         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 your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

·         Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse.  They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas and public transportation locations.

·         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 bathroom.

·         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.

·         Contact the Fishers Police at (317) 595-3300 and/or fill out a Vacation Watch Form to notify us of your vacant home.

·         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

·         Residents should NEVER open the door to a stranger.

·         Residents should announce that they are in the house and call 911 immediately.

·         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.

·         Donate to a recognized charitable organization.