BSO Offers Safety Tips to Keep Your Holiday Safe

By Jon Duka

Holiday shopping and Amazon deliveries are some of the best things to look forward to during this time of year. Unfortunately, they also offer theives an opportunity to steal. The Broward Sheriff’s Office has offered some simple safety tips to keep you and your possessions safe while you are shopping or traveling.

Crime Prevention Specialist Deputy Danielle Quinones says when out shopping be aware of your surroundings. She recommends parking in well-lit areas at night. “Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash and multiple credit cards; only carry what is necessary.”

“Always keep your vehicle locked and do not store shopping bags inside,” cautions Deputy Quinones. “Thieves are watching mall parking lots and shopping plazas for shoppers that place their purchased merchandise inside their vehicles before heading to their next location. If possible, bring your shopping bags with you or drop them off at home, before heading out again.”

If your holiday shopping involves a purchase from Craigslist, eBay, Letgo, or another online classified ad website, consider completing your transaction at a BSO or other law enforcement office.

“Always be sure to ask questions before buying or selling an item. Trust your instincts!” warns Deputy Quinones. “And if you’re shopping online, only shop on secure sites. Pay with a credit card, not using your bank account; you’ll get better liability protection. Always check your statements for unauthorized transactions.”

The holiday season is a time many residents travel. Deputy Quinones offers the following tips to secure your home before leaving for vacation: ▸ Maintain regular lawn maintenance while you are away. Don’t let your grass grow like a jungle! If burglars are staking out houses, they’ll notice these little things. ▸ Put a hold on your mail and newspapers or have a trusted friend, neighbor or family member stop by to collect these items.

Having a full mailbox is a dead giveaway that you are not home. Don’t forget to

remind them to pick up packages and deliveries by the front door. ▸ If possible, leave a vehicle in the driveway.

Have a neighbor park his/her vehicle there to give burglars the impression someone is home. ▸ Keep outdoor lights on during the evening/ overnight hours. Indoor lights can be set with timers. Lighting can give the impression that someone is home and possibly deter those ‘unwanted’ guests. ▸ Do not store garage remotes inside vehicles that are left behind while you are on vacation. ▸ Finally, take advantage of the free BSO

Home Watch Program. A deputy will check your home for signs of break-ins or suspicious activity while you are out of town.