Crime Prevention During the Holiday Season

DESIRE + ABILITY + OPPORTUNITY = CRIME

There is a concept in Crime Prevention called the Crime Triangle. The three

sides of the triangle are Desire, Ability, and Opportunity to commit

crime. We are most effective in preventing crime by removing the

opportunity. It is in this part of the triangle that we share responsibility. Thieves are on the prowl during holiday seasons. Criminals know that as we near the holidays we are having more packages delivered, and we may be away from home a bit more for holiday gatherings. In order to remove the opportunity for thefts to occur, we need to be regimented in our daily habits. Here are some safety tips to consider.

• Have packages delivered to your work address or arrange to pick them up at the courier or post office so they are not left unattended on a porch.
• If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area. Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device
• Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
• 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. Lock them in the trunk or put them out of sight. Keep vehicle doors locked, even when in the driveway.
• Locate your keys prior to going to your car.
• Keep a secure hold on your purse, and bags. Do not put them down, or on top of the car in order to open the door. And don’t leave your purse in a shopping cart as you shop.
• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. Dress casually and comfortably.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible. Avoid carrying large sums of cash.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• *Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
• *It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.
• *Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home. Also, break down and conceal boxes that contained expensive items before setting them out on the curb for trash.

The Jeffersontown Police Department wishes everyone a safe, and healthy holiday season. Together we can make a difference.

Officer Felicia Burba

Community Resource Officer

Jeffersontown Police Department