Sioux County, Iowa — With the arrival of the Christmas season, the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office would like to share some Holiday Safety Tips to contribute to the safety and security of people during the holiday season.
The holiday season is always a special time of year but also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware.
Driving:
Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car; set your alarm or use an anti-theft device if you have them.
If you must shop at night, remember to park in a well-lighted area.
Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
Park as close as you can to your destination and remember where you parked.
Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM):
If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a mall, business or well-lit location; withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing close to you.
Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
Shopping:
Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, try to go with a friend or family member.
Dress casually and comfortably.
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
Carry your Driver’s License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
Even though you are rushed and thinking about many other things, stay alert to your surroundings.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
Keep a record of all of your credit 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.
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.
Children:
If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
Teach children to stay close to you 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 they should never be left alone in the car.
Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police or mall security and teach them to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
At Home
Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
When leaving home for an extended time, have a trusted neighbor or family member watch your house, pick up your newspapers and mail.
Place and activate an automatic timer for indoor and outdoor lights.
Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.
If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed; damaged wiring can cause fires.
Place your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green.
Strangers at Your Door:
Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
It is 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 their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not donate.
Donate to a recognized charitable organization.
If in doubt, call your local law enforcement agency, or 9-1-1.
