Stay Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are a time for cheer, but can also be a time for crime. Our neighborhood recently had a carjacking at 40th and Holly, and a holdup on 41st and Genessee. Here are 12 crime prevention tips from the Kansas City Police Department for the holidays:

• Make sure to lock the windows and doors on your home when you leave, even if it's for a few minutes.
• Do not put large displays of holiday gifts in view of your windows.
• If you are going out of town for the holidays, use an automatic timer for your home's lights.
• Record serial numbers of expensive items such as electronics and keep them on a list that you can refer back to in the event the items are stolen.
• Lock your car even if you're gone for a few minutes, and lock your shopping packages in your trunk. Don't leave valuable items in view in your vehicle, i.e., cell phones, purses, etc. Don't leave your car running while it's unattended.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with a debit, credit or gift card.
• Notify issuers immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Always be aware of your surroundings and the people around you, especially when in parking lots.
• After the holidays, don't advertise what new items you have in your home. Flatten empty boxes down and place them at the curb in a trash receptacle.
• Be a "Nosy Neighbor" and watch out for suspicious activity in your neighborhood and call the police immediately if suspicious activity is observed.

Volker Neighborhood Association wishes you happy (and safe) holidays.