The holiday season is here! To keep this special time of year safe for all citizens the Morristown Police Department would like to remind citizens of how to avoid being a victim during the holiday season.

Driving:

• Avoid driving alone or at night, when possible.
• Keep all vehicle doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your vehicle.

Shopping:

• Shop while it is daylight.
• If shopping at night, park in a well-lighted area. Park as close to the building as possible.  Avoid parking next to vans, cars with dark tinted windows, or trucks with camper tops.
• Do not leave the vehicle unoccupied while the motor is running and do not leave children unattended in a vehicle.
• Leave packages and valuables in your trunk locked or hidden out of plain sight.
• Before returning to your vehicle, locate your keys.
• Avoid carrying a purse or wallet.  If carrying a purse, always keep a secure hold on your purse.  Never leave your purse unattended.
• If there is a suspicious person near your vehicle or you feel unsafe, ask the store security to escort you to your vehicle.
• Try to pay for purchases using a check or credit card.  If you must carry cash, keep it in your front pocket and do not carry large quantities.
• If your credit card is stolen report it to the credit card company immediately.
• Beware of any stranger approaching you.  This is the time of year when con-artists take advantage of those giving.

Children:

• While shopping, leave children at home with a family member or a babysitter.
• If you take your child shopping, teach your child to go to a store clerk for help if they get separated from you.  Make sure they know their full name, address, and telephone number.
• Teach children to stay close to you at all times.
• Do not allow children to go anywhere unaccompanied by you.

Automated Teller Machine (ATM):

• Use ATMs during daylight hours. 
• Use those located inside a facility or at a well-lighted facility.
• Only withdrawal the cash you need.
• Shield the keypad, from those around you, when entering your pin.
• Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM’s location.

Home:

• Be aware of those soliciting for charities door-to-door.  Ask for their identification, and find out how the donations will be used.  If not satisfied with the answers received, do not donate.
• Donate to recognizable charitable organizations.