Burglars Are Christmas Shopping Too

Your local criminal is getting ready to do some Christmas shopping and he wants your gifts.  For example, there were 4,460 burglaries in December 2024, (the latest statistics available from the FBI) 18% more than the average month.

When you leave your home, keep lights on, close your drapes, and never leave packages on your front porch.  Thieves will follow delivery trucks waiting for an opportunity to strike.  Most online retailers send emails and text messages so purchasers know almost immediately when a package has been delivered.

It is important to have the right homeowner’s insurance in place in order for these kinds of claims to be covered.  Call us for a free review.

Prevention Tips

•        Get a security system

•        Stop your mail and newspaper if you are traveling

•        Limit landscaping close to your house

•        Don’t advertise your vacation on social media

•        Leave lights on when gone

•        Always lock your garden sheds and garages

•        Use a variable light timer to activate lights inside your home

•        Lock your doors and windows

•        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 your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

•        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 your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

•        If you gone, arrange for your lawn to be mowed

•        Have adequate exterior lighting

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 your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

Theft From Vehicles

While you are in the store, criminals are in the parking lot looking for easy ways to get into your vehicle.  Keep all packages in the trunk; always lock your car, park close to the store, and in a well-lit area.