Suffolk Police Offer Holiday Safety Tips for Shoppers

The Suffolk County Police Department would like to remind residents during this busy holiday shopping season to take simple safety precautions to protect themselves and their property. The Police Department has increased patrols around shopping centers and downtowns in an effort to keep residents safe.

• The police department urges residents to follow these safety tips:
• Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Park as close to the entrances and exits of stores as possible.
• Park in well lit areas.
• Lock your vehicle and do not leave any valuables inside.
• Do not leave your holiday purchases in view in your vehicle. Save expensive purchases for last so you can head straight home.
• Have your keys ready when you approach your vehicle.
• If you see suspicious activity call 911.
• Women should protect their pocketbooks by carrying the bags in front of them.
• Avoid using ATMs outside at night.
• Have an estimated time you will arrive home from shopping. Be sure to share that information with family and friends.

Police officers, in uniform and plain clothes, have enhanced their presence at malls, shopping centers and downtowns this holiday season.

"We want residents to feel safe as they finish their holiday shopping," said Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy. "The enhanced police presence should help ensure a safe holiday experience.

"The holidays can be a hectic time of year and it's very easy to get distracted but it's important that residents remain alert while shopping," said Police Commissioner Richard Dormer.