The holidays can be a very exciting yet busy time of the year. There is a lot of decorating, holiday parties, family visitors, traveling, and shopping – especially online shopping.  Unfortunately, this is also an opportune time for certain crimes. It’s important to be very cautious and alert in order to stop those burglars, pickpockets and “porch pirates” from turning you into a grinch this holiday season!

The San José Police Department has created a list of holiday safety tips to ensure you celebrate safely this holiday season:

• Take precautions when traveling, including getting an automatic timer for your lights, temporarily stopping mail delivery, and asking your neighbor to check in on your home.
• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside and ensure all doors and windows are locked, especially if you plan on going out for the evening.
• If you’re shopping, park in a well-lit area and hide your shopping bags and gifts in your trunk
• If a stranger comes to the door asking for donations, make sure you ask for identification and know where your funds will be going – don’t give anything if you aren’t satisfied with the response.

Please make sure to check out more tips for holiday safety provided by SJPD.