The Christmas shopping rush is on, and Danville Police are reminding citizens about ways to stay safe while shopping. ‘’This is the time of year that people tend to forget to be careful with their property and their own safety,’’ says Danville Public Safety Director Larry Thomason.
Thomason says there are three basic rules – stay alert…stand tall and walk confidently…and trust your instincts. Director Thomason says citizens should think like a criminal might think. If you wanted some quick cash, how would you do it?
And Director Thomason says there are some basic things citizens need to remember. They include:
- Lock-up when you are leaving your home.
- Give your home the appearance that someone is home by using adequate lighting.
- If you have gifts at home, do not leave them in plain sight where they can be seen from outside.
- Women who carry a purse should keep it close to their body, preferably in front and covered with a hand or forearm.
- Pick a well-lit area when parking your vehicle at night.
- Do not carry to many packages at once. If you are out shopping take some of the packages back to your vehicle, and then lock them in the trunk. Do not leave packages in clear view where they can be seen.
- Do not flash large amount of cash while you are shopping. And if you are using a credit or debit care be sure you protect your pin number.
- If you use an ATM machine, approach it cautiously. And avoid doing ATM transactions in a poorly lit area
Director Thomason also notes this is the time of year that charities solicit donations. He suggested citizens should only give to groups they know. If you are unsure of the group soliciting, ask questions and check out the organization. At any time you don’t like what you hear or find out, refuse to donate. ‘’Certainly be suspicious of groups that accept cash only,’’ added Director Thomason.
In addition, Thomason added that equally important is fire prevention. Two weeks is recommended as the safe period for displaying a real Christmas tree. When placing the tree in your home, be sure to keep the tree stand filled with water at all times. Be sure to check light sets for wear and tear.
And Director Thomason also cautioned residents to make sure any candles you are using are extinguished before leaving your home. ‘’Better yet, do not use lighted materials but (instead) battery-operated devices
