Delaware State Police issued safety tips this week to avoid being vulnerable to theft and other holiday crimes:
• Remember to always lock your car doors, even if they are in the driveway of your residence.
• Secure any valuables in a place where they aren’t visible from outside your vehicle. If you have arrived to your final destination, remove the valuables from your vehicle.
• Always leave outside lights on during the night to keep your home and outside vehicles visible from the roadway.
• 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 for you.
• 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, vehicles 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.