Christmas safety tips

Stores are filled, people everywhere and caution, sometimes, goes out the air.

For criminal elements it might appear to be open season for them. Extra care and precaution become vital at this time.

It is with this in mind, the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has provided some tips on how to be safe during the holiday period.

Vigilance is top on the priority list for safety this season. In its safety bulletin, the TTPS said, “Be vigilant about your surroundings during the daylight hours, just as much as the night time. A crime can occur at any time. Be mindful that criminals are always paying attention to all signs of vulnerability to make their move on the unsuspecting victim.” Wearing expensive jewelry is a no-no this season and it attracts attention and its risks you becoming a victim. It is better, the TTPS advised, to shop during daylight hours and if night shopping is necessary, take a friend.

Carrying large amounts of cash should also be avoided, it advised. Displaying cash while making purchases, the TTPS said, make you a target. It was better to pay with cheque or credit card, if possible.

For extra caution, keep cash in front pockets and avoid placing it in back pockets as, “you [will] have better control over it and more likely to see who is approaching you.” If cards are lost or stolen immediately notify the card issuer. The service said a record of all credit numbers should be stored in a safe place at home.

When shopping avoid overloading with packages. “It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps,” it said.

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. Park vehicles, it added, in proper car parks as, “this will assist in getting you to your car and on your way safely.” Wear your purse across the body to keep your hands free for your keys, both when heading to your car and into your home.

While heading to the car, the TT PS advised, to stay alert. “Talking or texting on your phone or digging in your purse for your keys while walking is a distraction and makes you an easy target. Check the back seat for potential criminals before getting back in your car. Carry your keys in your hand while you are walking toward your vehicle, and pick a parking space that’s easy to back out of so that you can leave the parking lot quickly,” the bulletin said.

Do not expose valuables such as purses, laptops, cell phones, tablets and other electronic items as it makes an easy target for thieves. Before leaving your vehicle in a parked position, please make a check to ensure that your items of value are properly secured. In the age of social media, it advised, be careful what you post on social media.

If in an active neighbourhood watch group, “alert them of when you will be leaving your home to go shopping, or away on vacation.” Otherwise, alert your close neighbours so they can monitor any suspicious activity near your home.

If you are a victim of a crime or witness to a crime being committed against another, report it to the police immediately.