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Holiday Safety

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Denine Deal
  • 92nd Security Forces Squadron police services NCO
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  As the holiday season approaches, there are a few things important to keep in mind to keep Airmen and their families safe.

Throughout the holiday season, there has historically been a rise in vehicle prowling, vehicle and personal property thefts, and accidents. It's important to remain cognizant of individuals and surroundings.

To date, Spokane County residents, including Spokane City and Spokane Valley, have reported over 180 vehicle prowlings since the beginning of the year. A large majority of these crimes have occurred at Centennial Trailheads.

Citizens have been victimized by leaving doors unlocked, windows down or valuables inside their vehicle in plain sight.

With the holiday season approaching, the sheriff's office would like to remind citizens to leave valuables out of plain sight inside their vehicles, to detach GPS units from their dashboard if possible and to place their garage door opener in an alternate location other than their visor.

Another thing to remember as the holiday season approaches -- malls, other retailers and grocery stores will be more crowded than usual with shoppers. Keep the following in mind when going out to shop:

· Keep careful track of bags and other packages. If you leave something behind, it could get stolen or discarded.
· Tell a security guard or store employee about an unattended bag or package, especially when taking mass transit.
· Be sure not to buy more than is capable of being carried. If packages are making walking upright or seeing difficult, ask a store employee for assistance with carrying items to the car.
· Check receipts to see whether a full credit card number appears. If a receipt has the full number on it, scratch it out. Double check for all credit cards and check book after you paying for items.

By being aware of these issues and following these tips, Airmen can safeguard themselves and their family against crime this holiday season. As always, report suspicious activity to Crime Stop at 509-247-5555 or Crime Check at 509-456-2233.