Security Tips For Home, Business & Shopping This Holiday Season

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — With the holiday season in full swing, it is easy to get distracted with shopping lists, planning meals, and loved ones visiting from out of town. The Beverly Hills Police Department is offering residents security tips for shopping, homes and businesses during the holiday season and beyond.

Home Security Tips:

• If you're away for the holidays...
  • Register for a vacation watch if you plan to be out of town for the holidays at beverlyhills.org/police
  • Leave a radio or television on while you are gone
  • Have your packages delivered to a business or neighbor's home while you are away
  • Ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and newspaper while you are away
  • Set exterior lights to a timer
• Other home security tips:
  • Always lock your doors and windows
  • Ensure your home security system is working properly
  • Set your alarm while you are gone, even if only for a few minutes
  • Keep your home well-lit at night
  • Install video surveillance and make its existence known with signage
  • Ensure your video surveillance system is set to the correct date and time, and set to record

Shopping Security Tips

• When parking your car, remember...
  • Do not leave your valuables or shopping bags in plain view
  • Never leave your car keys inside your vehicle
  • Always lock your car, even if you will only be away for a few minutes
  • Never leave your car unattended with the engine running
  • Park in well-lit areas or valet your car
• Other shopping safety tips:
  • Do not become distracted by your shopping, always stay alert
  • Avoid wearing jewelry or clothing that may cause undue attention
  • Use well-lit ATMs
  • Monitor credit card activity and report any unauthorized transactions
  • Never leave your purse or wallet unattended

Business Security Tips

• Keep store windows clear to allow for visibility in and outside
• Maintain a neat and organized store
• Keep the exterior of the business well-lit at night
• Install video surveillance and make its existence known with signage
• Greet customers with eye contact and be attentive
• Stage employees apart within the store to have adequate floor coverage
• Be alert for customers without a clear purpose
• Keep non-public doors closed and locked
• Ensure your alarm system is functioning properly
• Ensure your video surveillance system is set to the correct date and time, and set to record
• Establish safety protocols for employees to follow in case of an emergency
• Communicate information with employees and surrounding businesses

If you see something, say something. Report suspicious activity to your local police department. Stay safe, and happy holidays!