Holiday Safety in Georgetown: Shopping, Parking, Traveling Tips

Although this month is filled with fun holiday parties, gift shopping, and community events, it’s also prime time for burglars to execute a crime.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, in 2012 there were 3,519 burglaries in D.C.

Crooks are just waiting for the holiday cheer to cause people to let their guards down. Avoid any holiday tragedies by following these tips.

Parking:

• Park in a well-lighted place
• Always lock the doors and close the windows
• Hide purses and shopping bags out of sight
• Do not leave anything in plain view including: CDs, electronics, and sunglasses
• When warming up a vehicle, do not leave unattended

Shopping:

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
• Keep purses and wallets close at all time
• Cancel stolen credit cards immediately

Out for the night:

• Make it look like someone is home by leaving lights or TV on
• Double check that all doors and windows are locked
• Be cautious while walking to the door, especially when alone

After Opening Presents:

• Do not leave gifts, especially electronics, visible from outside
• Keep boxes from expensive items out of the garbage until pick-up so burglars do not know what is inside the home

For more safety tips visit the MPDC.

Image via Shutterstock

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