Protecting Yourself During the Holidays

By taking these precautions, you can help protect yourself and your property, ensuring a joyful and safe holiday season. Whether you are home for the holidays or traveling, here are some essential tips to keep your home secure:

Secure All Entry Points

• Ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when you're home. For sliding glass doors, consider adding a security bar or a foot lock for extra protection.

Create the Illusion of Presence

• If you're away, use timers for lights, radios, or televisions to make it seem like someone is home.

Manage Your Mail

• Don't let mail, newspapers, or packages pile up. This is a clear sign that you're not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect them for you, or have your mail held at the post office.

Be Wary of Door-to-Door Scams

• Be cautious of unexpected visitors, such as unsolicited repairmen or individuals asking for donations. They may be trying to get a look inside your home.

Enhance Your Home's Security

• Consider installing a home security system with visible cameras. Good outdoor lighting, especially with motion sensors, can also deter potential intruders.

Be a Good Neighbor

• Get to know your neighbors and watch out for each other's properties. Report any suspicious activity to the local authorities.

Staying Safe While Shopping and Enjoying the Festivities

Christmas markets and shopping centers can be crowded, making them prime locations for theft. Here's how to protect yourself:

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

• Pay attention to who is around you and trust your instincts. If a situation feels unsafe, leave.

Carry Valuables Securely

• Keep your wallet, phone, and other valuables in a secure, zippered pocket or bag that you can keep in front of you. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Stay Alert

• Avoid distractions like wearing headphones or being engrossed in your phone, which can make you an easier target.

Be Cautious in Crowds

• Pickpocketing is more common in crowded places. Be extra vigilant in these areas.

A Note on Vehicle Security

• Your car can also be a target for thieves, especially when it's filled with holiday gifts.

Keep Valuables Out of Sight

• Never leave shopping bags, electronics, or other valuables visible in your car. Store them in the trunk before you arrive at your destination.

Avoid Multiple Trips to the Car

• Robbers often watch parking lots for people who make several trips to their car to drop off shopping bags. This signals that there are valuable items in the vehicle. Consolidate your shopping trips or go home to drop off your purchases.

Lock Your Vehicle

• Always lock your car, even if you are just stepping away for a moment.

*Review this Military Police Holiday Safety message

Emergency Contact Information: Keep these numbers handy in case of an emergency

• Local Law Enforcement (off-post): 112
• U.S. Military Police (Vicenza): 0444-71-5300