Practice the following safety tips to decrease your risk of becoming a victim of a crime this holiday season.

If you are shopping:

• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. Eliminate distractions like cell phones and iPods.
• Do not leave your purchases in plain sight in your vehicle. Secure shopping bags in your trunk or cargo area.
• Carry your purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Only take with you the valuables you will need for the outing.

If you go out for the evening:

• Turn on indoor and outdoor lights so it looks like someone is home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it just for a few minutes.
• Do not display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

If you see any suspicious or unusual activity, whether at home or while shopping this holiday season, please call the La Mesa Police Department, at 619.667.1400. If you believe a burglary is in progress, please call 9-1-1 immediately.

For more information on vehicle security, holiday safety, or to start a Neighborhood Watch Group, please call the La Mesa Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at 619.667.7545 or visit www.cityoflamesa.com.