'Tis the Season: To Be CAREFUL

Holiday deliveries stolen from porches were not uncommon in Haddonfield over the Christmas season last year.

Borough police sent out a holiday greeting this week that didn't include candy canes and sugar-plum fairies. It did offer commonsense reminders on how to not be a crime victim over the holidays:

• Packages delivered to a doorstep are tempting targets for thieves. Try to have signatures required for deliveries, or schedule delivery to a location where someone will be home.

•  Keep your vehicles and residence secure. Set alarms if you have them.

• When out, stay in busy, well-lit places.

• Even though you are busy, take the time to stay alert to your surroundings.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

• Keep cash in your front pocket.

• Notify the credit, debit or gift card issuer immediately if your card is lost, stolen or misused.

• Keep a record of all of your credit, debit and gift card numbers in a safe place at home.

• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.

• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.

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

• Do not store bought items in plain view inside of your vehicle. Lock packages securely in the trunk.

• When shopping with children, keep a close eye on them. Teach them not to leave a location if you get separated. Have them go to a predetermined location in the store or have them approach a store employee for assistance if they become separated inside of a store. If they approach an employee, have the child remain in an open area with that person until reunited.

• Never leave young children waiting in a car.

• If you drink alcohol, designate a driver or get a ride home.

• Be fire safe with trees, decorations and power cords. Keep real trees moist and check several times per day. Do not block exits with trees or packages. Have fire evacuation plans and make sure everyone in your house knows them.

• If you go away, have a trusted neighbor or friend watch your house. Stop newspaper and mail delivery while you are away.

• Keep your computers and electronic devices secure and don’t leave passwords or pin numbers where others can find them.

• Keep device finder programs active on electronic devices that offer that service.
• Keep receipts separate from packages.

• Enjoy the season and be safe!