Image from Unsplash

In order to stay safe in the city during the holidays, be sure to follow my 15 days of Christmas Checklist. Additionally, make sure to avoid last-minute shopping.

1. Don’t pay attention to notes left on your windshield unless they involve a parking violation. Safely check them when you can.

2. When shopping after 5pm, go in groups, particularly if you have to park in a mall garage.

3. Never leave packages visible in your car. I read a story about a distracted shopper who left bags on their car floor and returned to a smashed window and stolen packages.

4. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers, especially if you are a female. Speak briefly and move on.

5. If you notice someone following you after leaving the mall, call someone or find a safe place to go, but do not go home.

6. If someone with a gun approaches you at your car, just comply. Material possessions are replaceable, but your life is not.

7. Downtown areas tends to attract troublemakers, be cautious when approached, and never get into a confrontation.

8. Reckless driving is a big issue in St. Louis, so be aware of speeding cars when crossing the street.

9. Put your phone away and be aware of your surroundings. Don’t make yourself an easy target for thieves.

10. Package theft is common, so consider investing in a door camera or notifying a trusted neighbor when expecting deliveries.

11. Avoid poorly lit areas, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated streets and sidewalks. 12. Use caution when using ATMs. Try to use ones in well-lit, busy areas and cover your PIN number as you enter it. 13. Don’t carry large amounts of cash with you. Use credit or debit cards for purchases instead.

14. Keep an eye on your drink when out at bars or parties. Never accept a drink from a stranger. 15. Trust your gut. If a situation or person seems suspicious, it’s better to err on the side of caution and leave. Your safety should always be the top priority.

In closing, remember, this is just for informational purposes and should never replace calling 911 in dangerous situations. Let’s all have a safe holiday season!

We found this on Twitter: St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department

Protect your packages from porch pirates

From Twitter

Whether its Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or just the Holidays we’re in the prime time for thieves looking to take advantage.  Protect yourself from porch pirates by signing up for delivery alerts or have your package sent to a location you know someone can retrieve it for you.

Here are some helpful tips:

1. Track packages and sign up for delivery alerts
2. Require a signature for delivery
3. Use a package locker
4. Have packages delivered when you’ll be home, or have it delivered to your place of work
5. Talk with your neighbors and let them know when packages might be delivered so they can be on the lookout if you’re not around
6. Have family or a friend pick up your package
7. If there’s an option for delivery instructions, ask the delivery driver to hide the package behind a piece of furniture or a plant
8. Contact the delivery company and request they hold your package
9. If you’re able to install a doorbell video camera, thieves might think twice about targeting your porch

More:

Reason why criminals like the holiday seasons

1. Increased opportunities for theft: During the holiday season, stores are often filled with expensive merchandise and more crowds, making it easier for criminals to steal without being noticed.

2. Higher demand for stolen goods: The holiday season also brings with it an increased demand for popular items, which can be sold for a higher price on the black market. This makes it more lucrative for criminals to target stores and individuals.

3. Distracted and overwhelmed individuals: People tend to be more distracted and rushed during the holiday season, making them easy targets for pickpockets and other criminals who can take advantage of their lack of awareness.

4. Increased financial strain: The holiday season can put a financial strain on families and individuals, leading some to resort to criminal activities in order to make ends meet.

5. Busy law enforcement: Law enforcement agencies are often stretched thin during the holiday season due to increased shopping and travel, making it easier for criminals to go unnoticed and commit crimes.

6. Social gatherings and parties: For some criminals, holiday parties and gatherings can provide easy access to people’s homes and valuables, making it an opportune time for burglaries.

7. Online shopping: With the rise of online shopping, more personal and financial information is transmitted over the internet during the holiday season, making it a prime time for cyber criminals to carry out hacking and identity theft.

8. Easy targets for scams: With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, people may be more likely to fall for scams promising deals or holiday-themed scams, such as fake charities or gift card offers.

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