As 2015 quickly begins to draw to a close, I’d like to encourage all of our community members to keep safety and security in their minds as we approach the holiday season. This is the time of year when we become preoccupied with family, friends, celebrating, shopping, and enjoying the blessings bestowed upon us. It’s also the time when criminals try to prey upon on our good will or inattention. I’d like to offer a few holiday tips to continue to make this an enjoyable time of the year.
When you’re out and about
• Lock your car and park in a well-lit and visible location.
• Keep valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk of your car.
• Ensure you know where you’re children are going to be and when they are expected home.
• Have your keys in your hand when you approach your vehicle and be aware of your surroundings.
• Designate a sober driver. During the holiday season, we (law enforcement) increase our static and mobile enforcement for impaired drivers to keep the roads safe for everyone.
At home
• Do not advertise you’re not home. Burglars look for lights constantly left on, newspapers or mail piling up, unkempt yards, or now have resorted to social media to find out when occupants are not home.
• If you display a Christmas tree in your front window, don’t leave gifts under it until you’re ready to open them.
• Don’t pile up empty expensive gift boxes (computers, TVs, iPads, etc.) in your trash. It tells burglars exactly what they might get if they break into your home.
Always
• Be aware of your surroundings and have a plan.
• Be cautious and aware of strangers approaching you. This time of year, we see individuals working scams to prey on your good nature.
In closing, by exercising some caution and awareness you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim or making a poor choice. The men and women of the Chula Vista Police Department wish you a happy and safe holiday season.
Bejarano is Chula Vista Chief of Police
