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Date: November 13, 2008
(Thursday)
Time: 9:00 A.M.
Event: Holiday Tips
Location: Orlando Police Department
100 South Hughey Ave.
Orlando, Florida 32801
HOLIDAY TIPS
The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a
time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday
crime. CRIME TAKES NO HOLIDAY! We can never be too careful, too prepared or too
aware. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors.
Shopping
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Shop during
daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend
or family member.
-
Avoid
wearing expensive jewelry.
-
 Even
though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your
surroundings.
-
Do not
carry a purse or wallet, if possible. They are the prime targets of criminals
in crowded shopping areas, bus stops and on buses.
-
Avoid
carrying large amounts of cash. Keep cash/wallet in your front pocket. Pay for
purchases with a check of credit card when possible.
-
Notify the
credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
-
Keep a
record of all your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
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Avoid
overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility
and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
-
After
placing and concealing parcels inside your vehicle, get in and park in another
location in the parking lot before reentering the store or mall.
-
Beware of
strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year “con-artists”
may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your
money or belongings.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
-
If you must
use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a police station, mall or
well-lighted location.
-
Withdraw
only the amount of cash you need.
-
Protect
your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
-
Do not
throw away your ATM receipt at the ATM location.
At Home
-
Be extra
cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a
few minutes.
-
When
leaving home for and extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch
your house and pick up your newspaper and mail.
-
Indoor and
outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
-
Leave a
radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
-
Large
displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors
of your home.
Vehicles
-
If you must
shop at night, park in a well-lighted, well-traveled area.
-
Keep all
car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car.
-
Set your
alarm or use and anti-theft device.
-
Park as
close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
-
Never leave
your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
-
Do not
leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation
for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or
put it out of sight.
-
Be sure to
locate your keys prior to leaving the building.
-
Keep a
secure hold on your purse, handbag, and parcels. Do not put them down or on
top of the car in order to open the door or trunk.
-
Do not
approach your car along if there are suspicious people in the area.
-
Ask a mall
security guard for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
**COURTESY OPD CRIME
PREVENTION UNIT**
Anyone with
information is asked to call the Orlando Police Department or CRIMELINE at
1-800-423-TIPS. Callers may remain anonymous and be eligible for a reward up to
$100.
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