Safety tips for a safe, happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is this week and the Prince William County Police Department wishes to remind residents of some basic safety tips that may be utilized whether holiday plans include travel, shopping or sightseeing.

If you are traveling for the holidays, make your home look "lived in" while you are gone. Avoid the temptation to turn off exterior lights to save money, and enlist the help of a trusted neighbor, friend or family member to help achieve this goal.

If you will be out of town:

n Have a trusted neighbor collect your mail, newspapers and advertisements, and even park their car in your driveway from time to time.

n Provide that neighbor with your contact information in the event of an emergency.

n Use timers to turn lights off and on. Put an automatic timer on several lights and the ra-dio.

n Leave shades, blinds and curtains in their normal positions.

n Lock all doors and windows in your home. Secure the garage and shed, and secure valuable items that are inside these structures.

Jostling through crowded shopping malls or sidewalks while carrying your jacket or juggling countless bags makes you an attractive target to criminals looking to grab wallets, purses and your purchases.

If you will be shopping or sightseeing:

n Do not carry large amounts of cash, or more than two credit cards.

n Wallets should be carried in a front pants pocket, rather than in a back pocket or a jacket.

n Purses should be held close to the body with the opening facing toward the body.

n Do not wear large amounts of valuable jewelry.

n Consolidate purchases into one or two large shopping bags so you can keep track of every-thing.

n Never leave your purchases unattended, even for a minute.

n Try to not walk around shopping areas, banks and convenience stores alone.

n Walk in well-lighted areas and avoid dark, unlit shortcuts.

n While using an ATM, look around from time to time and be aware of what's happening around you. If anything suspicious happens, immediately cancel your transaction and leave.

Following these basic safety tips can help ensure a happy holiday for you as well as peace of mind that your property is secure.

Send questions or comments to PWCPD-PIO, 8900 Freedom Center Blvd., Manassas, VA 20192 or via email to policedept@pwcgov.org.