With the holidays approaching, the Boerne Police Department would like to remind everyone to stay safe.
Like many of you, during the holidays, I shop around to find the best deals for my family. But criminals are also on the hunt, which is why this time of year we see higher thefts and scam calls.
Criminals know cars will be loaded with expensive gifts and goodies and they will take advantage of the situation. While you’re spending hours in stores, standing in long lines, or trying to burn off those holiday pounds at the gym, these criminals will take the opportunity to break into your car and steal your valuables.
As for scams, please do not give out personal information to unsecured web sites or people calling you. If they are asking you to pay for something using gift cards, this is a scam.
Luckily, we can put the bad guys out of business while shopping at our small businesses by taking a more proactive approach and not become just another statistic. Follow these easy steps this holiday season: — Hide your things; Lock your car; Take your keys/key fobs.
— Cover up anything of value or items that could be mistaken as valuable.
— Lock your car doors and take your keys. Do not leave extra key fobs in the vehicle either. Most of our victims of vehicle burglaries had their vehicles unlocked and most of the stolen vehicles had the keys or key fobs left in them.
If you plan to be out of town, signup to be on our House Watch program. This program is free and registration can be completed online. Once we have some information, we can pass it on to our officers to go by your home and keep an eye out for any suspicious behavior.
Also, be sure to plan a safe and secure place to have packages dropped off. Ask a neighbor to bring in your packages or arrange items to be delivered to someone you know that will be home to receive your special purchases.
Criminals will drive around neighborhoods looking for the piles of packages on porches or in mailboxes. This is a prime opportunity for them to walk away with your hard-earned money.
Lastly, be aware of your surroundings and if you see something, say something.
This is a great time of year to be celebrating with families and friends and not worrying about having to make police reports. Remember “Hide, Lock, Take” and be safe.
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