View from the cop: Crime & punishment
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AJC.com > Metro > View from the cop > Archives > 2006 > December > 04
Monday, December 4, 2006
Preventing holiday rip offs
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Christmas is a time when we mentally gear up for the gonzo-shopping sessions that bring our friends and family great joy and massive debt to our worn out credit cards. It’s a time for us to reflect on many things, including that whole fruitcake business.
One thing you need to remember is this: Crooks don’t take the holidays off. Nope. Business as usual. In fact it’s the busy season for most because there is so much stuff to get.
The end-of-year holiday season - with all its hustle and bustle - is a time of distractions and activity. We sometimes forget the basics for maintaining our safety on the streets and at home. Opportunity is the criminal’s key to crime. By staying alert and following a few crime prevention tips, you can ensure a holiday season that is both happy and safe. A primary factor in crime prevention is being aware of surroundings and potential areas of danger - thereby closing the criminal’s keyhole of opportunity.
Busy shoppers can be targeted for purse snatching and other forms of street robbery. The malls are full of folks with money to spend. As we speed along, focused on getting through our treasure hunt, a criminal can size up a potential victim. Some tips:
• Outside of the mall, stick to well-lit, well-traveled streets, walkways and parking areas - for both walking and parking.
• Don’t flash large amounts of cash. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. use checks or credit cars.
• Carry only the credit cards you intend to use, leave the others behind.
• Carry a purse or shoulder bag close to your body, not dangling by straps. Put a wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or front pants pocket.
• Don’t fumble for house or car keys. Have them in your hand, ready to use when you reach the door.
• If possible, avoid carrying a large purse when shopping. A fanny pack is compact and more difficult for a thief to grab and run.
• Use ATMs wisely. Have the card ready before approaching the machine, and use one in a high traffic area.
• Be aware of the environment. Don’t walk or park in poorly lit areas. Don’t take so-called short cuts through wooded areas.
• If you believe someone is following you, cross the street, switch directions, walk into a store or restaurant. If you are really scared, yell. Don’t be embarrassed. Your safety is more important. Make some noise and draw attention.
• If you have a fruitcake, use it as a weapon.
Additional tips regarding the car or house you’ve left behind while on your travels.
• ALWAYS lock your car and residence, even if you are away for only a few moments.
• Do NOT leave valuables - gifts, cell phones, purse or clothing - in open view in your car. Take valuables away with you, lock them in your trunk or cover them in an unobtrusive way.
• Leave lights turned on both inside and outside your residence after dark. Criminals don’t like bright places.
• If you will be away from home for several days, make arrangements for someone to pick up your mail and newspapers. An overstuffed mailbox is a sure sign that no one is home, and burglars are tempted to check those envelopes for holiday gifts that might be enclosed.
The police department I work for offers assistance to travelers who live in Sandy Springs. E-mail steve.rose@sandyspringsga.org or ask for a SSPD House-Check form if you’re going to be gone.
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