Holiday Safety Tips

The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware.

Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors. The Framingham Police Department wishes you a safe, happy and peaceful holiday season.

Holiday Shopping

  • Dress casually and comfortably.
  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
  • Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
  • Keep cash in your front pocket.
  • Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen, or misused.
  • Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home
  • Be careful when you carry a wallet or purse; they are prime targets for criminals in crowded shopping areas
  • 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

  • Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help if you are separated from each other.
  • Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
  • Accompany your child to the restroom.
  • Don't leave your children alone in a vehicle.
  • Teach children their full name, address, and telephone number to give to police officers.
  • Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

   

Your Motor Vehicle

  • Keep all vehicle doors locked and windows closed.
  • When shopping at night, park in a well-lighted area.
  • When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings.
  • Never leave your vehicle unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
  • Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
  • Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your vehicle. This creates a temptation for thieves. Lock your gifts in the trunk or put them out of sight.
  • Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your vehicle.
  • Ask store security for an escort to your vehicle if you have a funny feeling or see suspicious activity.

Using an Automated Teller Machine

  • Choose an ATM in a well-lighted location.
  • Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from people standing near you.
  • Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
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