ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- As we approach the holiday season, here in Alabama it is a time to enjoy our family and friends, appreciate the fall colors and celebrate the reason for the season.
However, with all the good things this time of year brings, it also brings an increase in property crime.
Whether you are traveling for the holidays, reveling in the madness of Black Friday or just staying home with friends and family, there are things you need to be aware of to reduce your odds of becoming a victim of theft.
As you are out in public this season, even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
Here are some ways you can increase your awareness and have a higher level of security while shopping or dining out.
• Keep your car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.
• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
• Even if you "will only be a minute," never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
• Packages on the seat of your car create a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
• Keep a secure hold on your belongings and try not to put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
• When possible, use a check or credit/debit card to pay for purchases. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, but, if you do have to carry cash, keep cash in your front pocket.
• For both security and safety, avoid overloading yourself with packages, so you will have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
If you stay home during the holidays, there are also things to consider as you enjoy hearth and home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
• 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.
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.
• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
If you plan to travel out of the area, whether overnight or for a couple weeks, take the time to protect your house.
When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
Spend a few dollars to buy an automatic timer and put your indoor and outdoor lights on a schedule to turn on and off at random times.
It is also a good idea to leave a radio or television on, so the house looks and sounds occupied.
While you are traveling, if you are out at night, park in a well-lit area and scan the area before you exit your car and when you return.
If you visit a foreign country this season, visit the ISMO office first for your foreign area briefing, which will cover a multitude of topics for the country you will spend time in.
This is a great time of year and you should enjoy it for all it has to offer.
Just remember, an ounce of crime prevention is worth a pound of cure.
As always, if you have any questions about crime prevention, travel or force protection, contact the Installation Security Management Office or Directorate of Emergency Services.
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