Security tips for the holidays

USA Today (Society for the Advancement of Education), Dec, 1996

Movies like "Home Alone" may make burglars look dumb, but the fact is that homes full of gifts are attractive targets for smart thieves. too. The holiday season's increase in holiday travel. shopping, and the hauling home of millions of dollars in electronic equipment and other gifts brings an increased risk of robbery and burglary.

To reduce the risk of loss during the holidays, the Security Industry Association suggests that you don't display presents where they can be seen from a window or doorway, and store gifts away before leaving the house or taking a trip. Moreover, closing drapes or blinds even during short visits away from home is a good habit.

According to a Gallup poll, 22,-000,000 people will go away during the holidays. That's a lot of unattended homes. It is important to trick burglars into believing someone is home. Having lights on timers, stopping mail and newspaper delivery, and arranging can, shovel the walk, and park a car in the driveway are important security measures.

Con artists may take advantage of people's generosity during the holidays by making appeals for nonexistent charities. Always ask for identification from solicitors.

Shoppers rushed and distracted during the holidays must try to stay alert to their immediate surroundings. Use the following tips when doing your shopping this year: * Do not approach areas where there are people loitering in garages, parking lots, and outside of stores. * Shop before dark if possible or coordinate shopping trips with a friend. * Never park in an unlighted lot, no matter how convenient it is. * Lock your car and close the windows, even if you only plan to be gone a few minutes. * Store packages in the trunk so they are out of view and do not prove a temptation to a thief. * Have your keys in hand when you return to your vehicle. * Avoid having to set your packages down when getting into your car. * To discourage purse snatchers. don't overburden yourself with packages. Carry only what you comfortably can to the car. * Take only those credit cards for the stores where you intend to shop. Record the numbers of all of your credit cards and keep this information in a safe place at home.