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The original item was published from 11/14/2018 6:11:48 PM to 1/1/2019 12:00:03 AM.

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Police Reports

Posted on: November 14, 2018

[ARCHIVED] Holiday Safety Tips

Holiday Safety

The men and women of the Palos Heights Police Department would like to remind everyone to be vigilant during the approaching holiday season and to take a moment to review the following shopping crime prevention tips.


Holiday Shopping Crime Prevention tips:

 

  • Always walk and park in well-lit areas.
  • Park close to the entrance of the store, if possible.
  • Cellular telephone conversations can be a distraction that makes you vulnerable to thieves. A cellular telephone itself can also be a tempting target to thieves.
  • Do not electronically unlock your vehicle until you are within door opening distance. This helps stop a thief from getting into the car and waiting to strike when you least expect it.
  • If you are leaving a store and feel uneasy about entering the parking lot or garage by yourself, stay in the store and ask for an escort to your car.
  • Do not open your car door for any strangers in a parking lot or garage. If you believe you are in danger, call 911 immediately.
  • Do not display large amounts of cash or offer alluring targets for theft such as expensive jewelry or clothing.
  • Carry a purse or shoulder bag close to your body, not dangling by straps. Put your wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or front pants pocket.
  • Always have your car keys in your hand, and ready to use when you reach your car.
  • If you believe someone is following you, cross the street, switch directions, walk into a store or restaurant. If you are concerned for your welfare, yell for help. Do not be embarrassed. Your safety is more important!

 

Safe Online Shopping Tips:

 

  • Use trusted websites rather than shopping with a search engine that can be rigged to lead you astray.
  • Never buy anything online using your credit card from a site that does not have SSL (secure sockets layer) encryption installed.
  • Never give out your social security number or birthday to do online transactions.
  • Regularly check credit card, debit card, and checking account statements during the holiday season.
  • Protect your computer against malware with regular updates to your anti-virus program.
  • Create a unique password that cyber thief’s cannot compromise.
  • Avoid public computers to purchase items online.
  • Only use a Wi-Fi connection if you access the Web over a virtual provider network (VPN) connection.


Tips for Keeping Packages Safe This Holiday Season:

 

  • Consider a secure alternate delivery location instead of your front entryway.
  • Have the package sent to a UPS or FedEx location instead or your residence.
  • When shipping something of high value request a signature. Either the shipper or recipient of the package can make this request.
  • Request a vacation hold if you are going to be out of town.
  • Pick a delivery date and time that works for you.
  • Many times, you can redirect a package if you are not going to be home. Check with your shipper to see if this method is available to you.


If you are a resident of Palos Heights and anticipate traveling during the holiday season, we recommend that you contact the Palos Heights Police Department, at (708) 448-5060, to have your home placed on a “vacation watch.” While on the vacation watch list, officers check the exterior of your home for damage, or signs of break-ins. Have a safe and prosperous holiday season!


George L. Yott Jr.

Chief of Police


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