Cop of the Month and Holiday Safety Tips from the 76 Precinct

Top cops at the 76 Pct. met with members of the community this week to discuss crime in the neighborhood, give tips on how to be extra safe during the holidays and to honor one of their own for good police work.

Officer Darnell Simon received the honor of November cop of the month. Simon joined the NYPD in 2007, and has been with the 76 Pct. since 2008. In November, Simon made 8 arrests, 7 of them for robberies, said Captain John J. Lewis.

, but thanks to the good police work of Simon, the numbers are going down, said Lewis.

A representative from NYPD community affairs distributed flyers at the meeting on how to be extra safe this holiday season.

"Remember the criminals don't practice holidays, don't let your guard down," warned Community Council President Jerry Armer.

TIPS

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

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

If you are taking the subway, look for red or green lights outside the entrance. A red light means that you cannot enter the subway system at that location. Look for an entrance with a green light before going down the stairs.

Plan your purchases in advance and carry only the amount of cash necessary to make the 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.

Carry your purse close to your body. Place one end of the purse in the palm of your hand and the other in the bend of an elbow. Never carry a purse by the handle or wrap the strap around your body.

When in a restaurant, don't leave your handbag or packages unattended.

Don't wait until you have reached your front door to look for your keys. Have them ready in your hand. If a stranger is standing near your door, it may be a good idea not to go in until the situation is safer.

If you live in an apartment building, don't buzz in someone who rings your bell until you have verified who they are. This will help protect both yourself and your neighbors.

Be wary on con artists. "If it seems too good to be true, it probably is."