Holiday Shopping Tips
Release Date: 2015-12-14
The holiday season is approaching and the Long Beach Police Department would like everyone to take extra precautions while out shopping, and also around your home during this festive time of year. Suspicious activity should always be reported immediately, whether you are at home or away.
While shopping:
1. Place all gifts and packages in the truck of your car or somewhere out of sight
2. Always be aware of your surroundings and walk with confidence
3. Park in well-lit areas
4. Avoid shopping alone; there is safety in numbers
5. If possible, use credit or debit cards for purchases to avoid carrying large amounts of cash
6. Keep your car doors locked and windows closed
7. If you carry a purse or bag, carry it close to your body
8. Have your car key in your hand prior to arriving to your vehicle
Suggestions in and around your home:
1. Keep gift away from windows
2. Install motion sensor lighting where it cannot be easily tampered with
3. Keep bushes and shrubbery trimmed down to eliminate places for thieves to hide
4. If traveling, postpone mail/newspaper deliveries so your home doesn’t appear vacant
5. Do not store gifts in your vehicle or unsecured areas
If you witness a crime in progress, immediately contact the Long Beach Police Department to report the incident as it is occurring. You can request to keep your name and address confidential. You may also ask to be contacted by phone only if officers need to speak with you. Remember that community welfare is everyone’s responsibility, and we need YOUR help in keeping the holiday season safe for everyone.
DIAL: 9-1-1 (Emergency)
or
(562) 435-6711 (Non-Emergency)
