Holiday Safety Tips from Bay Police

The Holiday Season is always a special time of year. Unfortunately, it is also an opportunity for thieves to prey on the unsuspecting and the generous. The Bay Village Police Department has compiled a list of easy, common sense safety tips to ensure that our residents have a joyful season and happy New Year.

When at home for the holidays:

• Lock your doors and windows.
• Park inside your garage if possible. Lock your vehicles and do not leave valuables in plain sight.
• Do not leave packing boxes for expensive items on the tree lawn on trash day.
• Please shovel your sidewalks for the safety and convenience of all. It is the law.
• Do not have packages delivered to your home without signing for them. Thieves look for unattended packages. Consider having them sent to your work or having a neighbor sign for them.

If you are leaving home for the holidays:

• Have a neighbor or family member watch your house. Contact the post office and have your mail and newspapers stopped.
• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on timers.
• Consider leaving a radio or television on a timer so the home appears occupied.
• Contact the Bay Village Police and place your home on the vacation watch list.

While you are out shopping:

• Shop in the day light hours if possible and always lock your vehicle.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. Park in brightly lit areas and avoid carrying large sums of cash in a wallet or purse. Do not leave valuables and gifts in plain sight.

• If possible, shop with others and use the buddy rule. Trust your instincts, if you feel that you are vulnerable, ask security to escort you to your vehicle.
• Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason. Many distraction techniques are used to capture a victim’s attention.
• Notify your lending institutions and police immediately if your credit cards are lost or stolen.

Fraud protection:

• Scammers will try to take advantage of the good nature of people during the holidays.
• Criminals may pose as couriers or solicitors. Be aware that they may target you or your home.
• Ask for identification and only give to recognized charitable organizations.
• Do not be afraid to say NO.
• If you are shopping online, only shop at reputable websites.
• Do not click on pop up banners. If a deal is too good to be true, it usually is. Many pop up banners have spy-ware or may contain a virus.

If you have any questions please call the Bay Village Police Department at 440-871-1234. If it is an emergency, please call 911 right away!

Happy Holidays from the Bay Village Police Department!