Stay Safe This Holiday Season

This is the time of year crooks and thieves look forward to.
With all the hustle and bustle of running around trying to get
things done we can become distracted and fail to notice our
surroundings. Don't be a victim due to carelessness.

Here are a few tips to help you stay safe.

Try to do your shopping during the daylight hours.

Try to park close to store or mall entrances, and in well lit areas.

Keep your packages in the trunk of your car or hidden from view.

When walking through parking lots, stay alert, look around for any
thing suspicious. Walk with authority. Keep defense sprays at the ready.

Don't dangle handbags from your shoulder. Carry it tucked firmly under
your shoulder. Even better, try not to carry a hand bag at all.
Instead, put your driver's license and credit cards in a front pocket so
your hands will be free.

Be careful when using ATM's. Use those in populated places, but be alert
for suspicious persons hanging around. Avoid using ATM's at night. If you
must go at night, use a well lit ATM that is visible to passing traffic.

Before leaving a store put your cash and credit cards out of sight. Don't
walk out counting your change or putting away your check book or credit
cards.

Lastly, don't forget safety and security in the home. While you are out shopping
burglars may decide to do their shopping in your home.

The City of Norfolk has a Security Survey program wherein Crime Prevention officers
will inspect a residential or commercial property at no cost to the property owner.

Once the inspection is complete the officer will provide a written report that identifies
areas where the owner has done a great job with security, and will make recommendations
on improvements in design elements such as locks, lighting, or landscaping where needed.

You can call the Crime Prevention Unit at 757-664-6901 to schedule your Security Survey.

Hopefully, you will find this information helpful in keeping you and yours safe this
holiday season and throughout the year.