It’s always important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings at any point during the year. But while the holiday season arrives with fun times and warm memories, it also carries its own set of potential dangers.
Finding the ideal gifts for loved ones can be stressful on its own, but don’t get so carried away while shopping that you forget to ensure your own safety.
The adage “out of sight, out of mind” holds true this time of year, as it does any other time. Don’t leave anything valuable in plain view in your unattended vehicle. In fact, if it’s not something that you absolutely need for your shopping trip, it’s probably best to leave it locked up at your home.
Also, put any valuables away before you reach your destination instead of stowing them after parking your car. That way, people looking for a vehicle to break into won’t have the chance to see you hiding something and therefore know right where to look for it after you’re inside the store.
Don’t, however, park your vehicle out of everyone’s sight. Find a space in a well-lighted area to deter anyone who might intend to commit a crime — and if someone does approach your car, they will be visible to any passersby, including law enforcement and security guards patrolling the parking lot.
Scranton Police Chief Larry Rogers gave a good piece of advice during a senior safety event held last month. He told residents not to simply place packages in their vehicle and return to the store for more shopping. Instead, he said, they should move their cars to another section of the parking lot and return to the store through another entrance, if possible.
Holiday safety goes beyond shopping. If you are making a visit to your bank’s ATM, scan your surroundings carefully, particularly corners, shrubbery and other darker areas.
And, as we’ve said several times before in these editorials, report any suspicious activity to the proper authorities.
Although many articles, programs and events stress the importance of safety during the holiday season, it never hurts to repeat any of that information. After all, everyone needs to hear it, and the more chances they have, the better.
We encourage our local law enforcement agencies and fire departments to continue the educational programs they have for the public. We also want local residents to participate in these programs and take heed. No one wants disaster during their holiday season, and what you learn could prevent a serious crime or a major injury or even save a life.
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