Next week many of us will gather with family and friends to give thanks for the blessings in our lives, and to offer both our thanks, and prayers for the men and women serving in the military around the world.
The recent Veterans Day ceremony and Memorial unveiling reminded me of the significant sacrifice so many of our citizens make each day so that the rest of us can continue to enjoy the freedom we sometimes take for granted.
Next week also brings the traditional start of the annual holiday shopping season. For some, the holiday shopping season is often an opportunity to steal property left unattended. If you are one of those brave souls who ventures out to a shopping mall or big‐box store to take advantage of seasonal holiday deals, please take a few moments ahead of time to make a plan to secure you purchases and other valuables.
Take a few simple steps to safeguard your property and reduce crimes of opportunity.
When leaving your vehicle unattended:
- Always lock your vehicle
- Park in a well lit area
- Close windows, and sunroof
- Do not leave items of value in plain view
- Phones
- Lap‐top computers
- iPad & iPod
- Charging cords
- Cameras
- Portable GPS units
- Shopping bags of merchandise
For those of you who have not had your lap‐top stolen, and choose to venture out into the virtual world of online shopping, be careful to shop from only secure web‐sites. I suggest shopping from trusted on‐line vendors you have used in the past that have a history of good customer service. Just don’t forget that those packages full of on‐line orders need to be delivered, and a front porch loaded with UPS and Fed‐Ex boxes is a pretty attractive sight to most crooks.Track your package delivery status, and if you will not be home to accept delivery, have a trusted friend or neighbor collect the package to hold for you.
The holiday season should be a time of great fun and celebration. When you are on the road, whether out shopping or commuting to or from work, don’t let an inconsiderate driver ruin your mood. Be patient, be courteous to other drivers, practice safe defensive driving, and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. Let’s work together to enjoy a safe, and secure holiday season.
Stay Safe,
Chief Dan
