Crime Prevention Tips

Unfortunately, the holidays present many opportunities for burglars, muggers and pick-pockets. The following tips for a safer holiday season are provided by your Santa Clara Police Department. Practice these tips all year long!

• Lock packages in the trunk.
• Don't overload yourself with packages.
• If you must shop in the evening, shop with a friend.
• Park in well-lighted areas, as close as possible to store entrances. Be particularly aware of persons in the parking lot, especially near your car.
• Lock your car and make sure the windows are closed.
• Carry only the charge cards you will need. Don't carry or flash large sums of cash.
• Carry your purse next to your body with the purse flap against you. Men should carry their wallets in front or inside pockets.
• Be aware of your surroundings and the people around you. Don't allow your attention to become distracted from your purse or packages.
• Teach children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if you become separated in a store or shopping mall.
• Don't hesitate to notify store security if you see suspicious activity.
• If you have to wait for a ride, wait in a busy, well-lighted place.
• If you are a victim of a crime, report it to police immediately.

 Home Safety

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even if you will only be gone for a minute.
• Don't put large displays of holiday gifts in view of your windows or doors.
• When going on trips or out for evenings, use automatic timers to turn indoor lights on and off to make it appear you are home.
• Immediately after the holidays, mark new gifts with your California Driver's License or ID number. Engravers are available at the Central Park Library for check out.
• Don't advertise what gifts you received by putting the boxes curbside on trash day. Break the boxes down before placing curbside, or take them to a recycling center yourself.

• Use automatic timers for lights in your home.
• Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
• Ask neighbors to look after your home.
• Don’t tell the world that your home will be empty by posting vacation plans on Facebook, Twitter or other social networking websites.

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