NYPD tips for a safe holiday season

Courtesy of the folks at BKCB 14 (brooklyn community board 14).

Holiday Safety Tips from 70th Precinct

Posted on: November 19, 2009

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Deputy Inspector Ralph Monteforte, Commanding Officer of the 70th Precinct, has asked CB14 to share the following tips with our residents for an enjoyable and safe holiday season:

• Be alert and aware of your surrounding at all times. Criminals often confront people who are distracted.
• Travel on populated, well-lit streets. If possible, travel with a friend or family member.
• When driving, keep your doors locked and windows closed. Make sure the gas tank is full and maintain your car in good working condition to avoid breakdowns.
• If you are taking the subway, look for the red and green lights outside the entrance. A red light means that you cannot enter the subway at that location. Look for an entrance with a green light before going down the stairs.
• If possible, stay in the view of the token booth while awaiting your train. Never walk near the edge of the platform.
• Plan your purchases in advance and carry only the amount of cash necessary to make the purchase. If you must carry a large sum of money, divide the cash between your purse, pockets and wallet.
• Record the numbers for each of the credit cards you own. This will facilitate the theft or loss of the card.
• Carry your purse close to your body. Place one end of the purse in the palm of your hand and the other in the bend of the elbow. Never carry a purse by the handle or wrap the strap around your body.
• Always lock your car. Before getting into your car, check the back seat to make sure no one is hiding.
• If you are carrying a wallet, carry it in the breast pocket of your jacket or in your side pants pocket.
• The rear pants pocket is one of the easiest to pick.
• When in a restaurant, don’t leave your handbag or packages unattended.
• If you must place your packages in your car, put them into the trunk and make sure the trunk is locked. Never leave packages in the passenger compartment unattended.
• Don’t wait until you have reached your front door to look for your keys. Have them ready in your hand. If a stranger is standing near your door, it may be a good idea not to go in until the situation is safer.
• Lock your front door immediately upon entering your home.
• If you live in apartment building don’t buzz in someone who rings your bell until you have verified who they are. This will help protect both yourself and your neighbors.
• Be wary of con artists. Con artists use a number of ploys to scam you and steal your property. Some divert your attention while another pick your pocket, some pose as utility workers or a tradesperson to gain access to your home, while others conduct scams that are more elaborate involving several con artists. As a consumer you should also be wary of illegal vendors selling goods on the street. Purchase merchandise from only licensed vendors or reputable stores. Follow your instincts and remember, “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is”.
• Don’t drink and drive.