'Tis the season for gift giving and cheer. However, as we check off our holiday shopping lists, we must also keep in mind that the holiday season presents a prime opportunity for crime as well. The unfortunate increase in theft around the holidays is largely due to the high volume of cash carrying, check writing and the stockpiling of gifts. Criminals are not afraid to end up on the naughty list and will rob you of more than just your holiday cheer. This is their favorite time of the year, too. Here are a few safety tips to help protect you from crime this holiday season:
- Avoid carrying purses or large bags. Criminals are on the lookout for items they can quickly grab and run with.
- Do not carrying large amounts of cash. The less you have on you, the better.
- Instead of checks and debit cards, use credit cards for gift purchases. Credit card companies generally have an eye out for suspicious purchases and can reimburse you quickly if fraudulent charges are made.
- If you must carry cash, keep it in your front pockets.
- When using an ATM for cash withdrawal, hide your PIN number with your hand the best you can.
- When hosting holiday parties, be on the lookout for any uninvited guests that may have slipped in with the crowd.
- When shopping, avoid a large number of purchases all at once. Lugging several gifts back to the car will slow you down and make it easier for criminals to attack.
- Always be vigilant when walking through parking lots and large garages and make sure to lock your car at all times.
- NEVER leave gifts/valuables in your car. Criminals are constantly on the lookout for this ever so common mistake.
- Leave a few lights and a radio on whenever you leave your home. Criminals are aware that you are likely hiding presents all around the house and may be waiting for the opportunity to strike.
While there are plenty of those looking to play Grinch to your holiday, it's still the most wonderful time of the year. With these safety tips in mind, not even Scrooge himself can ruin your holiday!
Pettineo Insurance Agency Inc. provides insurance in Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, North Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, Oakland Park, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Hollywood, Sunrise, Coral Springs, Pembroke Pines, Sunrise, Tamarac, Plantation, Lighthouse Point and all of Florida.
