Holiday Safety Tips From Temple Terrace Police

Community Service Officer Tracy Mishler is on vacation through Dec. 14 and not providing his usual crime updates. However, before he left the office, he put together a list of tips to keep local residents safe during the holiday season.

According to a press release Mishler sent out, the holidays are an opportune time for crime.

If you’re traveling:

• Get an automatic timer for home lights.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and park their vehicle in your driveway from time to time.
• Don’t forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped.
• Notify the Temple Terrace Police Department by calling 813-989-7110 and ask for a Vacation Watch.

If you’re out for the evening:

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks like someone’s home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s only for a few minutes.
• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

If you’re shopping:

• Stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you.
• Park in well-lighted spaces, and be sure to lock the car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk. Do not leave valuables in plain view inside your vehicle.
• Avoid carrying a large amount of cash; pay with check or credit card whenever possible.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don’t overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Don’t leave purses unattended in shopping carts even for a moment.