Safety advice for the holidays

At a recent meeting in Broadneck, officers from the Anne Arundel County Police Department's reminded attendees that there are many things local residents can do to protect their homes and valuables during the holiday season.

"Sometimes people forget about using common sense during the holidays," said Corporal Michael Flaig. "We are here to just give you some reminders about how to stay smart and stay safe."

Flaig and First Class Officer Robert Padgett said locking doors and windows at all times is top priority.

"We also see a lot of people who like to put their Christmas trees by their windows," said Flaig. "Yes, they look nice, but putting gifts under the tree in full view is just want a thief wants to see."  He said putting gifts out of sight until Christmas day is a better idea.

Lighting is also important, as it leaves fewer places for unwelcome visitors to hide. Locking up your car when it is parked outside is always smart, as is hiding your GPS and making sure that, if you have to keep gifts inside the car, they stay in the trunk and out of view.

You wouldn't think of trash being a lure to thieves, but what is set in recycling bins can be awfully interesting. Broken down boxes of expensive gifts like tv's, computers, or Xboxes lets intruders know exactly what to look for. Breaking up the setting out of boxes over time instead of all at once is a safer alternative.

If you plan on traveling for the holidays, Flaig suggests letting someone nearby know that you will be away, but not everyone in the neighborhood.

"You can also let us know if you are going away," said Flaig, "and your police district can patrol the area to see that everything looks ok. But make sure that we also know if you are going to have others in the house, like a cleaning service, so we don't mistake them for intruders."

If you want to leave a key for someone in case of an emergency, you should give it directly to them and not leave it in a special outdoor place. Flaig also suggested stopping your mail and paper delivery, and keeping lights and tv's on a timer so that the home looks lived in while you are away. (Outside lights on timers were also suggested.)

Another tip involved the use of social media. Though it is exciting to share news with friends and family about your travel plans or news of exciting holiday gifts, remember that you shouldn't provide too much information. You never know who is reading, and these days it won't take too much time to find your address.

If you are planning to stay home for the holidays and see someone suspicious in your neighborhood, Flaig said to call the police and report what you have seen.

"We can't be everywhere," Flaig explained. "You are our eyes and ears. You never know, what you see could help us with any number of cases."