The holiday season is a fun, but also hectic time, that can easily create a distraction for people. It is important to pay special attention to the things going on around you. The holiday season is considered peak season for burglars to do their dirty work. The Victoria Police Department believes you can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. Please share these safety tips with your family, friends and neighbors. We ask you to remember these simple safety precautions and enjoy the excitement of a safe and happy holiday.

If You Are Out for the Evening:

• Turn on lights and a radio or TV so it looks like someone’s home. Putting these items on automatic timers is a great option.

• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it’s just for a few minutes. If you have an alarm - USE IT!!

• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from outside. You aren't the only one that likes window shopping. Burglars don't do their shopping in the stores though - if you show them something they want by leaving all those gifts in the window, your home could be the next stop on their holiday shopping trip.

If You Are Shopping:

• Walk confidently with your head up, stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.

• Don’t overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

• If the kids are coming with you - teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.

• Pay attention to people walking in front of and behind you. Be particularly observant when you are in crowded areas such as malls and stores, as places with large crowds are favorites for thieves.

• Dress down while shopping instead of wearing expensive clothing and jewelry, which attracts thieves.

Protect Your Vehicle:

• Loading up on all those gifts is a sign of progress in the holiday shopping. But if those packages are left out in the open after they’re in the car, your car has become a likely target for burglars. The old cliché “Out of sight, out of mind?”  is very relevant when it comes to your vehicle.

• Always lock your vehicle and store all items out of sight. Breaking into an empty car isn’t worth a thief’s time. However, anything left in plain view – from your holiday gifts to spare change, sunglasses, CDs, MP3 players, cell phones, GPS or laptops – is an open invitation for a burglar to break into your vehicle.

• Although it’s cold, never leave your vehicle running while you run inside your home or a store – even if only for a minute or two.

• If you take packages to the car but plan to return to the store or mall, drive your car to a new location. Criminals can be on the lookout for unsuspecting shoppers who simply drop their purchases into the trunk and then return to keep shopping.

• When returning to your car (or home) have your keys in your hand ready to open the door. A few seconds may keep you from becoming a crime victim. Also check the inside of the vehicle for an intruder. Lock your doors immediately after entering the vehicle.

• Check out our Lock-Take-Hide campaign for more information on safeguarding your vehicle.

If You Are Traveling:

• Get an automatic timer for your lights. Some automatic timers will activate at random times, rather than a pre-programmed schedule. The unpredictibility of such timers will even further emphasize the appearance of an occupied home.

• Ask a neighbor to watch your home and park in the driveway from time to time. This is a common practice for members of an active Neighborhood Watch. If you don't already have one, now is the perfect time to get one started!

• Don’t forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it’s a sure sign you’re away.

If You're Hosting A Party:

• Have non-alcoholic beverages available for party guests.

• Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.

• Arrange for an official designated driver for your party who will not drink at all.

If You're Attending A Party:

• Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages.

• Eat high protein foods that will stay in your stomach longer and slow the absorption of alcohol into your system.

• Remember: Only time will eliminate the alcohol from your body. Know your safe limit.

• Never drink and drive.

Celebrate Responsibly:

• The holiday season is a time of celebration and revelry. Drinking and driving is a danger to everyone on the road. Anyone with a BAC of .08 or higher is in violation of Texas law and will go to jail if stopped by an officer. What you need to keep in mind, however, is that even if you don't have a BAC of .08 or higher, you can still be intoxicated according to Texas law. Texas law defines "intoxication" as - "not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties". So remember... even a "buzz" is too much!

• Check out our Intoximeters page that will help you estimate your potential BAC after a few drinks.

• Remember that the risk isn’t worth it - if you choose to drink alcohol at a party, don’t drive. Take a cab, use public transportation, or a designated driver. Have fun, but remember to celebrate responsibly.

• Citizens Hospital offers a service to individuals that feel they have had to much to drink, but cannot afford a cab. If you are need of such service - contact Citizens directly at (361)573-9181.

After Opening Gifts:

• Don't advertise all the wonderful gifts you received over the holidays. Break down all boxes, and recycle all wrapping paper. Putting the boxes from all the new gifts you recieved at the curb, shows burglars exactly what kind of property you pocess in your home.

• The holidays are a good time to update, or create, your home inventory. The Victoria Police Department recommends you take photos or make videos of items, and list descriptions and serial numbers. If your home is burglarized, having a detailed inventory can help identify stolen items and make insurance claims easier to file. This is also a helpful practice in the event of a disaster, such as a hurricane or house fire.

• Make sure things like TVs, DVDs, VCRs, stereo equipment, cameras, camcorders, sports equipment, jewelry, silver, computers, home office equipment, and power tools are on the list. Remember to check it twice!

• Check out our Operation Identification page for more information on creating your home inventory.

For more information, contact Officer Chris Guerra at (361)485-3808.