Tips offered for holiday safety

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December 16, 2007

By KENNETH HART - The Independent The Daily Independent Sun Dec 16, 2007, 07:47 PM EST

ASHLAND — Sure, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.

But, nothing ruins one’s holiday cheer any quicker than becoming the victim of a crime.

Certain crimes, mainly those involving theft, typically spike during the Christmas season because of increased opportunities for criminals.

An unlocked vehicle piled high with holiday purchases can present an irresistible target to a thief looking for items to convert into quick cash.

And, there are other aspects of the season that help bring out the criminal element.

“With all the hustle and bustle the holiday season brings, we sometimes forget how vulnerable we can be, especially while shopping,” said Sgt. Bill Bare of the Ashland Police Department.

Bare recently offered up a number of tips aimed at helping residents avoid falling prey to criminals during the holidays.

For one, he said, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye out for suspicious people and vehicles during your shopping excursions, especially when walking to and from your vehicle.

“If you notice someone acting strangely, go back inside and either call 911 or have a security officer walk with you to your vehicle,” Bare said. “Keep your cell phone in your pocket and available if needed.”

Also, Bare said, it’s never a good idea to burden yourself with packages to the point where you can’t be observant and aware.

He also recommended having your keys ready before exiting the store so you can make a quick entrance to your vehicle.

Purse-snatchers typically are on the prowl for easy targets during the holidays as well. To avoid becoming one, Bare said, keep your purse close to your body while shopping and not dangling from its straps.

And, he said, if you place your purse in a shopping cart, loop the child safety belt through the straps to keep a thief from grabbing it without you noticing.

Also, Bare said he recommended not carrying large amounts of cash and paying for holiday purchases with checks or credit cards when possible.

Packages placed in a vehicle should be secured in the trunk, rather than left in the passenger compartment, he said.

And, finally, Bare said it pays to remember that there’s safety in numbers.

“It’s always best to shop with a friend,” he said, because most assaults occur on lone victims.

KENNETH HART can be reached at khart@dailyindependent.com or (606) 326-2654.

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