• Always lock your doors and windows, even if you plan to be out for a short while.
• If you have an alarm system, use it.
• Leave lights turned on both inside and outside your residence after dark. Use timers and motion sensors.
• If you will be away from home for several days, arrange for someone to pick up your mail and newspapers. An overstuffed mailbox is a sure sign that no one is home, and burglars are tempted to check those envelopes for holiday gifts.
• Make sure your neighbors or friends know when you will be gone.
• When returning home after a shopping trip, be sure to have the house keys in your hand, ready to use when you reach the door.

• Always lock your car, even if you are away for only a few moments.
• Do not leave valuables – gifts, cell phones, purse, or clothing – in open view in your car. Take valuables with you, lock them in your trunk, or cover them in an unobtrusive way.
• When you return to your vehicle after your shopping trip, lock your car door as soon as you get in.

• Always walk and park in well-lit areas. Park close to the entrance of the store or mall, if possible. When outside of the mall, stick to well-lit, well-traveled streets, walkways, and parking areas for walking and parking.
• Do not talk on a cell phone when walking through parking lots and streets. Your phone conversation is a distraction that makes you vulnerable to robbers. Keep your full attention on your surroundings. In addition, your cell phone itself can be a tempting target to thieves.
• Do not electronically unlock your vehicle until you are within door opening distance. This helps stop a thief from getting into the car and waiting to strike when you least expect it.
• Do not open your car door to anyone in a parking lot or garage. If you believe you are in danger, call 911 immediately.
• Do not flash large amounts of cash or offer tempting targets for theft such as expensive jewelry or clothing.
• Carry a purse or shoulder bag close to your body, not dangling by straps. Put a wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or front pants pocket.