SAFETY TIPS

If you are traveling:

• Get an automatic timer for your lights.

• Ask a neighbor to watch you home, shovel snow and park in the driveway from time to time.

• Don't forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it's a sign you're gone.

If you're out for the evening:

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks like someone is home.

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it's just for a few minutes.

• During the holidays don't display gifts where they can be seen from outside.

Disposing of boxes after holidays

Cardboard packaging from holiday gifts or significant purchases, such as electronics, appliances, or computers can be invitations to break-ins. Reduce this risk by:

• Removing information about the make, model, and serial number of your item from the box. Cut out this information and save it with your records.

• Preparing the cardboard for recycling. Flatten and bundle the cardboard. It may be tied with twine, or placed into smaller cardboard boxes. Please do not use plastic bags, because it causes problems with the recycling process. Once bundled, the packaging will no longer advertise what you have just bought to people walking or driving down your street looking for information.

If you're shopping:

• Stay alert and be aware of what's going on around you.

• Park in well-lighted space, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows , and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.

• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don't overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

If a Stranger Comes to your Door...Beware

• Criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. It's not uncommon for people to try to take advantage of others' generosity especially during the holidays by going door-to-door for charitable donations when there's no charity involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the funds will be used. If you aren't satisfied, don't give. Help a charitable organization you know and like instead.