Tewksbury Police Offer Holiday Safety Tips for Residents

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, the safety precautions which we normally take are sometimes forgotten, or the excitement of the season causes us to let our guard down.

The Tewksbury Police Department wants this to be a SAFE holiday season for all, so they are reminding residents to follow these safety tips while enjoying the holiday season:

• Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times. Criminals often confront people who are distracted.

• Whether driving, walking or taking public transportation, plan the trip in advance. Know how to get to your destination by the most direct and safest route.

• Travel on populated, well-lit streets. If possible, travel with a friend.

• Remember to lock your home and your vehicle. When driving, keep your doors locked and the windows closed. Make sure the gas tank is full and maintain your car in good working order to avoid breakdowns.

• When at shopping plazas, park in well-lit area and have your keys out and ready when you return to your vehicle. Try to minimize the number of valuables left in your vehicle.

• Plan your purchases in advance and carry only the amount of cash needed to make your purchase. If you must carry a large sum of money, divide the cash between your purse, pockets, and wallet.

• Record the numbers for each of the credit cards you own. This will facilitate reporting the theft or loss of the card.

To keep shipped packages safe, consider these tips from UPS and FedEx.

• Requesting a signature on your deliveries, especially those of high value, so they are not left unattended. You can also give specific instructions on where to leave a package so it is not left in a visible spot.

• Signing up for an email alert that will notify you when your delivery is set to arrive.

• Choosing an alternative destination -- either at work or at a family member’s, friend’s or neighbor’s house where someone will be home to receive the delivery.

• Re-directing packages, even if they’re already on their way. Send them to your closest FedEx or UPS office, or another secure location.

• Setting up a vacation hold if you’ll be away during the holidays so gifts will not be delivered to an empty house.

If you arrive home to find your package has been stolen, immediately report it to police.