Wednesday, December 07, 2005

Holiday Advice and Safety Tips

If You Are Out for the Evening:
  • Turn on lights, a radio, or a TV so it looks like someone's home.
  • Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows
  • Don't display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

If You Are Traveling:

  • Get an automatic timer for your lights.
  • Ask a neighbor to watch your home: shovel snow, pickup mail, and park in your space from time to time.
  • Have mail and newspaper stopped - if it piles up, it's a sure sign that you are gone.

If You Are Shopping:

  • Stay alert and be aware of what's going on around you.
  • Park in a well-lighted space, lock the car, close the windows, and hide bags and gifts in your trunk.
  • Avoid carrying cash, pay with credit cards and checks whenever possible.
  • Don't overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets.
  • Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security if separated from you.
  • See Pickpocket and Theft prevention.

These tips and more can be found on MPD's holiday safety page.

Our personal reminder to you - if you're gonna drink - don't drive. That's what cabs are for. And if you have friends visiting from out of town or even the suburbs, make sure they have a couch to crash on for the night. Cheers!

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