Don't Let a 'Grinch' Ruin Your Holiday Season!

With the care and giving of the holidays also comes opportunity for muggers, burglars and thieves.  Don't let what should be a joyful time of year turn to sorrow by becoming an easy victim.  Although there is no infallible method to prevent crime, there are many tactics and methods you can use to significantly reduce the odds.

Where People are Victimized:

Home and shopping are two of the primary areas of risk during the holidays.  Home because of the many gifts that accumulate for the season.  Shopping because there are so many more doing it during the holiday season.  Identity Theft is a serious problem any time of the year, but with the increase of shoppers during the holiday season it is even more. ...more about Identity Theft.  Also, learn more about holiday safety tips and holiday safety tips for your children. 

For questions regarding crime prevention tips or about crime prevention presentations, contact the Tampa Police Department's Neighborhood Affairs Liaison in your area:

• Neighborhood Affairs Liaison - Patrol District 1 - (813) 354-6692
• Neighborhood Affairs Liaison - Patrol District 2 - (813) 931-6541
• Neighborhood Affairs Liaison - Patrol District 3 - (813) 242-3867

or email the Tampa Police Department

Tips on Fire Safety

Going out-of-town for the holidays?

• Get an automatic timer for your lights. You want it to appear as if someone is home.
• Have your mail placed on hold with the United States Postal Service and have your newspaper deliveries paused so things do not pile up.  Have a neighbor check.
• As always, you should lock all your doors and windows and set your alarm if you have one.
• Complete a Vacation Watch Form for your residence to be checked by officers during your absence.

Throwing a party?

• Have liquid refreshments that are non-alcoholic available too.
• Encourage some in attendance to be non-drinking designated drivers.
• Arrange transportation for those who become intoxicated.

Going to a party?

• Eat high protein foods that slow the absorption of alcohol.
• Know your limit.
• NEVER drink and drive!
• Only time will dissipate alcohol in the bloodstream.

Learn more about DUI.

Recipes for the Road is a collection of non-alcoholic beverages.

Tips on Fire Safety