As the holiday season
is upon us, be advised that robbery and theft occurrences increase
around the holidays. Protect yourself and your property.
-
When shopping, do not leave valuables in your vehicle. If you make
purchases and have further shopping to do, place your purchases in the
trunk, not in plain view. Keep receipts with you. Consider inviting a
friend to go with you.
- Carry your valuables wisely. Do not
keep cash in your wallet (or only keep a small amount of cash in your
wallet). Instead, keep your cash in an inside pocket and only carry
those credit cards you intend to use.
- When carrying a purse,
hold it close to you, with the opening or flap to the inside, nearest
your body. Never leave a purse in a shopping basket. Always keep it with
you.
- If you carry a backpack, carry your wallet on your
person. If in a crowd, consider carrying the backpack on your front,
pickpockets can easily enter a backpack in a crowded area unobserved and
unnoticed by the owner.
- Protect your credit card numbers and
other personal information. Only provide credit card numbers over the
phone if you initiated the call and know to whom you are providing this
information.
- After the holidays, don't put the boxes of
high-dollar gift items out by the trash (i.e., TV, VCR, DVD, Computers,
etc.), advertising the new items in your home. Break down the boxes and
turn them inside out or break into pieces and discard in a bag or trash
receptacle.
- If you are traveling for the holidays, have a
friend or neighbor collect your mail and newspapers or have your service
suspended while you are away.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Report
anything or anyone suspicious that you observe. The Fall Church city
Police Department Non Emergency Number is 703-238-5050.
These tips were provided by the
Falls Church Police Department.