Sydney always wants to be safe and secure during the Christmas holiday season. He loves this special time of year. Sydney knows it's also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crimes. He says we can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. Sydney says to please share this information with your family, friends and neighbours as he wants everyone to have a great Christmas with plenty of presents. WC Security Services and Sydney the Snowman wish you a safe, happy, peaceful and crime free Christmas and New Year.
A few simple tips from Sydney to keep you safe:
Driving
Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your car alarm or use an anti-theft device.
If you must shop at night, park in a well-lit area.
Avoid parking next to vans, trucks, or cars with tinted windows.
Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
Ask store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
If you must use an ATM, try to choose one that is located in a well-lit location. Check the surrounding area before you approach it and before you leave it. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
Do not throw your ATM receipt away or leave it at the ATM location.
Shopping
Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
Dress casually and comfortably.
Avoid wearing expensive jewellery.
Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
Pay for purchases with a cheque or credit card when possible.
Keep cash in your front pocket.
Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused. Keep that contact number in your phone contact list.
Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
Children
If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
Teach your child to go to a store clerk or security officer or police officer and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or store security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
At Home
Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbour or family member watch your house.
Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer unless motion activated.
Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.
Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.
If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed. Frayed or damaged wiring can cause a fire.
Most of all - Sydney says have a Happy, safe and secure Christmas and New Year.