Police issue useful safety tips for the upcoming holiday season

These reminders are especially useful during the holidays, but apply year-round.

November 23, 2015; 11:27 AM • by Trevor Dickerson

The holidays are a prime time for would-be criminals to take advantage of distracted patrons at crowded shopping malls. These tips, put together by Henrico Police, are a good reminder any time of the year.

From Henrico Police:

During this holiday season and all throughout the year, remember these simple safety tips: don’t drink and drive, lock your vehicle at all times, and be aware of your surroundings. This season of celebrations is also a time when some people will take advantage of crowded shopping centers and attempt to commit crimes. Our holiday patrol, a special team of officers, will be in our retail areas and shopping malls, and our traffic and DUI enforcement teams will be working throughout the holiday season.

While you enjoy the festivities, remember to “STOP and LOCK then SHOP”. Most larcenies from vehicles that occur in Henrico County are from vehicles that are unlocked. We continue to remind everyone to lock valuables in the trunk of your vehicle. If your vehicle doesn’t have a trunk, stow items out of sight. Do not leave items such as purses, wallets, and GPS devices in plain view, and preferably, don’t leave them in your vehicle at all. Take the time to STOP and LOCK your vehicle. It does make a difference. The attached flyer will be distributed throughout Henrico County through December.

Members of the community are reminded to call our non-emergency communications number at (804) 501-5000 if something looks or feels suspicious, and in an emergency, call 911. Remember to trust your instincts; if you see something – say something.