As we enter one of the busiest shopping and travel times of the year, Pasco Sheriff’s Office reminds Pasco County citizens to stay attentive during the holidays. It’s important to take additional steps to keep safe during the holidays to prevent yourself from becoming a victim and make it a happy holiday season.
If you’re traveling for the holidays, take a few moments before you leave to ensure your home is safe and secure. Check that your exterior lights are functioning properly, especially those near doors or windows, as those looking to commit crime tend to avoid well lit locations. Consider investing in a timer for your lights, both interior and exterior. Have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail and trash cans while you’re away, and remove hidden keys from outside your home. You may want to put in a mail delay request as well. If you can, consider installing a camera system on your home so you’ll be able to spot an issue quickly and call law enforcement. If you already have a camera system, be sure it is up-to-date, functioning properly and you know how to access it. While you may be excited about your trip, avoid posting that you’ll be away from home on social media too. As always, don’t forget to lock your doors and windows when you leave!
If you’re heading out to shop this holiday season, do so smartly. Never leave bags or merchandise visible in your car while you’re away. Lock them in a trunk or take large or expensive purchases home immediately before continuing your shopping trip. Park in well-lit areas and take your valuables, like a purse, wallet and phone, with you when you leave your car, even if it’s just for a moment while you run it to pick up an online purchase. Don’t brag about expensive purchases or note when you’ll be away from home on social media.
Increased online shopping near the holidays is the perfect time for those committing crimes of opportunity, such as package theft. When away during delivery hours, have packages delivered to a safe location such as the office or a trusted neighbor who is home during the day. Also consider noting where a delivery company should leave your package so it’s not easily visible from a street, or picking up packages from the shipper’s facility. Many retailers also offer free in-store delivery or curbside pick-up for extra security. If a package is stolen notify the retailer, delivery company and file a report with local law enforcement.
While shopping on marketplace phone apps, like OfferUp or Facebook Marketplace, may be tempting, make sure you do so safely. Always conduct transactions through the app to prevent fraud. Don’t carry cash or agree to cash transactions in person. Meet somewhere well-lit and populated, and tell a friend or family member what you’re doing and where you will be. You might even bring another person with you for the transaction.
Be attentive to your surroundings while out shopping. If something seems suspicious, don’t be afraid to call for help. Taking a few extra precautions to stay safe this holiday season goes a long way in ensuring that you, your loved ones and your property stay safe. Stay tuned to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office social media pages for the latest updates and safety information. PSO wishes you a safe and happy holiday season!
Pasco Sheriff’s Office
727-844-7705