Illinois Valley Crime Stoppers, which serves LaSalle, Peru, Oglesby, Spring Valley and Utica, recently released a list of crime safety tips to consider as the holiday shopping season begins.
• When parking your vehicle to go shopping, remember where you parked it! Always park in a well-lit and well-traveled area. Do not park in a remote dark area.
• When you return to your vehicle, scan the interior of your car to be sure no one is hiding inside. Check to see if you are being followed.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. You will be ready to unlock the door and will not be delayed by fumbling and looking for your keys.
• When storing items purchased at the stores, place them out of sight. The best place is in a locked trunk.
• Do not leave your purse, wallet or cellular telephone in plain view.
• Do not resist if someone tries to take any of your belongings. Do not chase someone who robs you, they may have a weapon. Instead, call 911.
• Lock your vehicle and put up your windows even while you are driving.
• If you go to an automatic teller machine for cash, check for people around and make sure it is well lit and in a safe location.
• Carry only the credit cards you need and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• If you make a purchase with your credit card, be sure to obtain the carbons or see that they are destroyed in front of you.
• Beware of the "a good deal" scams. Things are not always what they appear to be.
• If you are purchasing toys for small children, be sure that they are safe. You will be surprised what a small child can swallow or what can injure them.
• Drive defensively. Traffic is heavier during the holidays. Drivers may also have indulged in too much holiday spirits.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
• When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers 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.