It’s that time of year again, when criminals begin looking for opportunities to make their holiday season more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help citizens have a happy holiday:

Holiday tips at home

•Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when leaving the house, even for a few minutes.

•When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch the house and pick up newspapers and mail.

•Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.

•Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

•Large displays of holiday gifts shouldn’t be visible through the windows and doors.

•When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside the home.

•Be sure the Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly people or pets cannot pull it over on themselves.

•If using lights on the Christmas tree, ensure the wiring isn’t damaged or frayed. Frayed or damaged wiring can cause a fire.

•Place a live Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green.

•Never dispose of wrapping paper in the fireplace.

Strangers at the door •Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.

•It’s not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved. Ask for identification and find out how the donated funds will be used. Do not donate if the solicitor seems questionable.

•Donate directly to recognized charitable organizations.

Hosting a party

•Have nonalcoholic beverages available for guests.

•Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.

•Arrange for an official designated driver who will not drink at all.

Attending a party

•Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages.

•Eat high-protein foods that will stay in the stomach longer and slow the absorption of alcohol into the system.

•Only time will eliminate the alcohol from the body. Know your safe limit.

•Never drink and drive.

Driving

•Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of the car. Set the alarm or use an anti-theft device.

•If shopping at night, park in a well-lighted area.

•Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells or cars with tinted windows.

•Park as close as possible to your destination and remember where you parked.

•Never leave the car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

•Don’t leave packages or valuables on the seat of the car. This creates a temptation for thieves. Lock items in the trunk or put them out of sight.

•Have keys in hand before going to your car.

•Keep a secure hold on purses, handbags and parcels. Don’t put them down or on top of the car to open the door.

•When approaching and leaving the vehicle, be aware of the surroundings.

•Don’t approach the car alone if there are suspicious people in the area. Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.

Shopping

•Dress casually and comfortably. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

•Always carry a driver’s license or identification card along with only the necessary cash, checks or a credit card that will be used.

•Stay alert to surroundings.

•Keep cash in a front pocket.

•Notify the credit card issuer immediately if a credit card is lost, stolen or misused. Keep a record of all credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

•Be extra careful when carrying a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas or on public transportation.

•Avoid becoming overloaded with packages. Have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

•Beware of strangers approaching for any reason. At this time of year, con artists may try various methods of distraction with the intention of taking money or belongings.

Children

•If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted baby sitter.

•Teach children to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case they’re separated from the parent.

•Teach children to stay close at all times while shopping.

•Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

•Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and should never be left alone in the car.

•Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security.

•Teach children to immediately inform their parent if a stranger is bothering them.

ATMs

•When using an ATM, choose one that’s inside a mall or in a well-lighted location. Withdraw only the needed amount of cash.

•Protect the PIN by shielding the keypad from anyone who’s standing close.

•Don’t throw the receipt away at the ATM location.

For more information, call the Thousand Oaks Police Department’s Crime Prevention Bureau at (805) 371-8329 or go to www.toaks.org/government/ depts/police/.

This article was provided by the Thousand Oaks Police Department’s Crime Preven tion Bureau.