Holiday Savvy
Here are a few simple tips from the Spokane Police to consider during the holidays:
- Park Smart
- Park and walk in well-lit, busy areas
- Stay away from over-grown bushes and trees
- Use valet parking or an attended garage if you are alone
- Shop at locations that have police and/or security patrols
- Never display or “flash” your cash or valuable personal items
- Don’t leave valuables (cell phones, electronics, GPS devices, jewelry, etc.) in the car…if necessary, put them in the trunk
- Don’t wear expensive jewelry while shopping or keep it at a minimum
- Keep the amount of cash you carry to a minimum…use credit/debit cards instead
- Carry cash in an unusual place instead of your purse or wallet
- While walking through parking and public areas
- Pay attention to your surroundings, people, and vehicles in the area
- Do not approach situations that do not feel safe; trust your instincts!
- Walk with confidence
- Do not overload yourself with packages
- Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet in your front pocket
- Do not be distracted by talking on the phone or wearing headphones
- Help others by reporting suspicious people to the police or security staff
- Ask security to escort you if you feel uneasy
- When you reach your car
- Have your keys in your hand and alarm panic button ready to activate
- Look into the vehicle and check for intruders before entering
- Continuously scan the area while loading children and packages
- Teach children to safely enter and exit the vehicle in an expedient manner
- Roll up the windows and lock your doors as soon as you get in the car
- Make it a habit to always start your vehicle and drive away immediately
- If approached by a suspicious person
- Be aware of strangers approaching for any reason
- Do not be afraid to tell subjects to back off, scream for help, activate your car alarm, or use a self defense product
- If you suspect you are being followed, switch directions and immediately go to a well-lit area crowded with people
- If someone in a vehicle asks for directions, ignore them or answer from a distance – do not approach the vehicle
- If you become the victim of a crime
- If approached by a subject with a weapon, do not argue or resist; give up the car and any valuables they ask for (your life is worth more!)
- Call the police immediately to report the crime and provide detailed information; your actions can help prevent someone else from becoming a victim
- Keep records of credit card numbers and contact information in an easily accessible place and immediately report them if lost or stolen; the quicker you report them, the less damage a suspect can do
“Most crimes are crimes of opportunity, so by following these valuable tips, you can help keep yourself from becoming a victim,” Sgt. Dennis Walter, S.P.D.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!