The holiday season should be a joyous once, where family and friends gather and can enjoy this special time of year. The last thing you would want is to ruin the season be becoming a victim
The Fishers Police Department has released a number of tips to local residents to increase the chances the holidays will be fun for you and your family.
The police news release is below:
==========================================
The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people can become distracted and vulnerable to theft and other acts of crime. We encourage residents and visitors to be careful, prepared, and aware of their surroundings. If you see something that does not look or feel right please call 911 immediately. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors. Chief Mitch Thompson and all of us at The Fishers Police Department wish you a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season.
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.
Immediately call 911 to report suspicious activity