The holidays are a time when thieves and con artists are frequently on the prowl. Here are some tips from the Tyngsborough Police Department to help keep your home, your car, and your possessions, and your family safe.
Keeping Your Home Safe
We all want our homes to reflect the joy of the season, but avoid displaying gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway, Arrange to have packages delivered to a neighbor if you’re not home to receive them. Packages left on porches or doorsteps are “easy picking” for thieves. It also draws unwanted attention to your home. Consider simple outside decorations. Elaborate or large lawn pieces are often stolen right out of the yard. Be sure not to obscure the view from your windows. You need a clear view of your property. Remember to always lock your doors and windows, even if you’re are only gone for short time. If you will be away for the holidays have a trusted friend or neighbor take care of your home.
Keeping Your Neighborhood Safe
First share these tips with your neighbors. Establish a network with your neighbors and make a plan for mutual protection and notification. Visit the elderly and others in your area that may be isolated during the holidays.
Staying Safe While Shopping
Always Lock your car and close the windows, even if you’re only gone a few moments. When possible, lock all merchandise or packages in the trunk of your car. Load your packages before departing, not at the next destination. Shop with at leastt one partner. Have your car or house key in your hand as you approach the door. If attacked use those keys as weapons! Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you. Look inside your car and around it as you approach be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry purses under your arm. Keep wallets in an inside pocket.
Keeping Your Credit and Identity Safe
It you write checks, use only the necessary information, name, address, phone number. Never give your social security number. Safeguard your credit cards and checks as you do cash. Do not leave them in jacket pockets or sitting out in restaurants, stores or hotel rooms. Keep your purse or wallet on you. shoulder straps should cross your body, not dangling from your shoulder. Do not lay them in a shopping basket. Be sure they are closed securely. Make a list of all our credit cards, debit cards and checks with account numbers. Keep the list in a secure place at home. Notify issuers immediately if your card is lost, stolen or misused.
Chief Mulligan and the entire Tyngsborough Police Department wishes all Tyngsborough residents to have a safe and happy holiday season.
By Chief William F. Mulligan
Tyngsborough Police
Webmaster’s Note: This is a special submission to tyngsboroughma.gov from Tyngsborough Police Chief W.F. Mulligan
