Holiday Security Tips

By Administrator on December 14, 2009 | with Comments (0)
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season sometimes we forget about basic security practices.  The holiday season is typically one of the highest crime periods of the year.  Many people have their gifts stolen while at the office or as they carry them out of stores, from their parked vehicles, and from their homes. We encourage you to take the following security measures during the holiday season.  
 
Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Security Guy
Around the Office:

  • Only carry small amounts of cash to work.
  • Don’t reveal to coworkers that you have extra cash or valuable gifts at your desk or work station.
  • Never leave money or valuables such as gifts unattended or in plain view or in an unsecured desk.
  • Keep electronic devices (i.e. MP3 players, CD players, etc.) with you or secure them while you are not using them.
  • Always secure your purse, wallet or other valuables if you must leave them at your work station.
  • Charitable collections can be an easy target for theft.  Secure any cash contributions in a locked desk or cabinet at the end of each day.
  • If any of your possessions or valuables are stolen at work, immediately notify your supervisor, your local facility guards. 

When Shopping:

  • Attempt to do your shopping during day light hours.
  • Be aware of those around you when you are making ATM transactions.  
  • Put your ATM receipt in a safe place.  
  • Try to avoid shopping alone.  Walk with your head up; be aware of your surroundings.  
  • If possible, only carry small amounts of cash. If not possible, then never expose large sums of cash or valuables at any time.
  • Carry your keys, cash and credit cards separate from each other.
  • If you’re not sure a shopping bag will be available to you, take one of your own and consolidate as many packages as possible.
  • If you do carry a purse or bag, carry it close to your body and always zipped. Be careful if you sling the strap across your body. 
  • Do not wear expensive jewelry, and take care to dress in a modest outfit that will draw minimum attention to you.  
  • Arrange your shopping itinerary so that you acquire your most expensive items last.  
  • If you sense danger, or observe suspicious behavior, go to the mall or store information desk and request a security escort.  
  • Leave the store prior to closing time. This way, there is greater assurance you will walk out with other people. There is safety in numbers.
  • Avoid shopping until you are exhausted. You are more alert when you are less tired.
  • Never lay your purse or wallet on the counter as you might forget to retrieve it.  
  • When hurried or in a crowded store, make sure you get all forms of ID and credit cards returned to you before leaving.

Parking Lots:

  • Don't leave valuables in plain sight. If you leave valuable items visible in your car, your car is automatically a target.
  • All presents and gifts should be secured in the trunk of your vehicle to prevent viewing.
  • Try to park in busy, well-lighted areas. Try to park in well-traveled areas.
  • Lock ALL your vehicle's doors even if you plan to be gone for only a brief time.
  • Set any alarm or anti-theft device. If you have one, use it! 
  • Never expose cash or valuables in a parking lot/structure.  
  • If you sense danger, use your remote key access “PANIC” button to sound the vehicle’s alarm.
  • If available, ask security to escort you to your vehicle if you are leaving late at night.  
  • Always have your car keys in your hand to ensure easy access to your vehicle.  
  • Glance inside your car, front and rear seats before getting in.
  • Immediately lock your car doors upon entering.

At Home:
 
  • After opening gifts when throwing out trash, break down cardboard boxes to avoid revealing your purchases.
  • Put trash receptacles out just before trash collection time.  
  • Keep windows locked.  Don’t forget to use deadbolts.  Keep garages and sheds locked.
  • Don’t leave a spare key in a “secret” hiding place.  Experienced burglars know the locations of those hiding spots.
  • When socializing at parties, be wary of attempts to elicit information about recent expensive gift purchases.
  • Keep gifts hidden from view from outside windows.
  • If traveling away from home, ensure to use light timers and turn on a TV or radio for noise distraction.  
  • Have a neighbor collect your mail and holiday deliveries while you are away, or temporarily suspend the service.
  • Check your bills and bank statements for unauthorized charges and withdrawals.  
 
The following Federal Trade Commission website provides guidance and resources on what to do if you find yourself a victim of identity theft: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/

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