The Pierce Township Police Department suggests these tips to assist you in having a safe and happy holiday season. They may reduce the likelihood of you becoming a victim.
- Never leave anything of value in view in your vehicle. Place items purchased out of sight preferably in a locked truck. IPods, cell phones, lap top computers, GPS systems, and satellite radios are a few items that would make a thief’s Christmas list.
- Never leave your purse, wallet, and cell phone unattended in your shopping cart. It only takes a matter of seconds for someone to take these items while you are looking at merchandise.
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash or extra credit cards. Carry only those cards that you will need to use that day.
- Be careful of scams during the holiday season. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
- Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason. During this time of year, con-artist may try various methods of distracting you with the intent of taking your money or belongings.
- When using an ATM be careful of who is in the area. Use your hand or body to shield the ATM keyboard when entering your pin number. Do not give someone else the opportunity to see the number that you are entering.
- Only make online purchases from trusted, secure websites.
- Have purchases delivered to your home when you will be at home, or to a neighbor that will be home. Packages left on the front porch have a tendency to “walk away”.
- If going out of town for the holidays, fill out a Vacation Request on the Pierce Township Web Site or call the police department at 752-4100 to have one filled out. Remember to have a neighbor pick up your mail and newspapers.
- Cash, credit cards, and other property can be replaced, your life can’t.
