Holiday shopping time keeps thieves busy, too
By Brad Bauer, bbauer@mariettatimes.comFact Box
Holiday shopping safety tips
Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
Dress casually and comfortably.
Avoid wearing excessive or expensive jewelry.
Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
Stay alert to your surroundings.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
Keep cash in your front pocket.
Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
Source: crime.about.com
Area law enforcement officials are expecting the typical rise in thefts with the holidays arriving and are encouraging people to take care to secure their homes and vehicles.
"It really starts right now when people head out shopping," said Washington County Sheriff Larry Mincks. "Make sure to put packages in your trunk and never leave anything out in plain sight. If you have a (sport utility vehicle or van) cover your items with a blanket."
Mincks said locking car doors isn't enough. Most thieves don't think twice about breaking a car window to gain access.
This year the area has seen a rash of home burglaries and vehicle breaking and enterings. Although the thefts seem to have leveled off in recent months, the holidays are always ripe for crime.
"People get desperate and take chances," Mincks said.
For home security, Mincks suggested always locking doors and windows and asking neighbors to watch over things if there are plans to be out of town.
"And I don't think it's a good idea to put gifts out too early - especially putting them under a lit tree that's by a window," he said. "If people walk by and see gifts it is almost an invitation."
Marietta Police Capt. Jeff Waite said purses are common targets of thieves during holidays. He said stores are crowded and people are easily distracted, which makes taking a purse much easier.
"It only takes a second to disappear," he said.
Police suggest only carrying a limited amount of cash and credit cards and keeping it secured at all times.
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buddybar
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11-27-09 10:42 PM
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I MAKE THE STRONGEST HOME SECURITY BAR IN THE WORLD,CAN BE SEEN AT ****buddybardoorjammer**** THANK YOU
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tingette
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11-27-09 8:32 PM
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There is nothing in my house worth being shot over. Want to take that chance?
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momof2
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11-27-09 1:32 PM
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How Ridiculas to say, "And I don't think it's a good idea to put gifts out too early - especially putting them under a lit tree that's by a window," he said. "If people walk by and see gifts it is almost an invitation." Because you placed the gifts IN YOU HOME, UNDER YOUR TREE, that this would be an "invitation" to BREAK INTO YOUR HOME AND STEAL! WHAT?! Since when is this acceptable ans should just be expected!? Craziness!
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2224441
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11-27-09 7:36 AM
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Who would be so selfish as to steal from another? Especially at this time when so many people are down on their luck?
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