Delaware State Police are advising the public to make safety a priority to avoid being vulnerable to theft and other crimes during the holiday season.

DSP offered the following safety reminders:

• Remember to always lock your car doors, even if your vehicle is in your driveway.
• Secure any valuables in a place where they aren’t visible from outside your vehicle. When you arrive at your destination, remove the valuables from your car.
• Always leave outside lights on during the night to keep your home and vehicles visible from the road.
• Be aware of any suspicious activity or subjects in your community and report them immediately to the police.
• If packages are being delivered and you are not going to be home, ask a neighbor to collect them.
• When meeting for transactions brokered online, find an easily visible spot to meet and ensure all money exchanged is legitimate.
• Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, people try various distraction methods to steal money or belongings.
• If you have a security system, always remember to activate it and lock the doors to your home.
• Try to shop during the day but, if you shop at night, do not do it alone.
• Parking lots are an easy place to fall victim to a crime. Always park in a safe, well-lit location.
• When walking to and from your vehicle, stay alert to your surroundings and be aware of possible suspicious persons, cars or situations. Always remember, if you see something, say something.
• When going into a store, always turn off your vehicle, remove the keys and lock the doors.
• Use caution if carrying a wallet or purse and be sure to not leave them unattended.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carrying large amounts of cash.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid being preoccupied with your cellphone and other electronic devices.