Tips for Workplace, Shopping and Home Safety

Maryland Capitol Police has shared some safety tips for your workplace, home and while out shopping this season.

Workplace Safety Tips:
• Keep your wallet, keys, purse, and other valuables with you at all times or locked in a drawer or closet.
• Report individuals to Maryland Capitol Police who are in unauthorized areas , or who make you feel uncomfortable with their words or actions.
• Walk out to your car with a co-worker or friend, or request an escort to your vehicle.

Shopping Safety Tips:
• Park in a well-lit area. Avoid parking next to large vehicles.
• Do not leave items visible in your car.
• Close all the windows and lock the doors.
• Take your garage door opener with you.
• Avoid carrying a large amount of cash.
• Keep your purse/wallet close to you.
• Be alert about your surroundings. Someone may be watching you go to your car with packages.
• Have your keys to your vehicle in your hand before leaving the store so you will not have to look for your keys.
• Stay off your cellphone while walking.

Home Safety Tips:
• If you plan to be away, have a neighbor or friend watch your house and pick up newspapers.
• Lock the doors and close/lock all your windows.
• Leave a light on when you aren’t home. Use a timer light.
• If someone knocks on your door, you do not have to answer it. Ask what the person wants, but do not open the door. Burglars often knock on front doors, and when they don’t get an answer, they assume no one is home and then proceed to break into the house.
• Use a home alarm. Burglars don’t like to break into houses that have alarm company signs posted.
• Do NOT keep a spare key under your mat or anywhere a burglar may logically check.
• Avoid having packages delivered to your home if you are not there to receive them.
• Do not leave gifts under the Christmas tree if you will be away from home for an extended period of time.