The Christmas season is a time for sharing and enjoying family, friends, and loved ones. Sadly, it is also  time for criminals who will maximize their expanded pool of targets carring extra money with lowered awareness. The hustle and bustle of the season can also bring with it the potential for anxious travelers to overlook some basic safety precautions before taking to the roads.

 

"Don't become so preoccupied with the thrill and excitement of shopping and holiday travel that you lose your sense of good judgement when it comes to your personal safety and that of your family." warns Sheriff Jeff Wiley.

 

Sheriff Wiley wants you to think about safety and keep your guard up during this holiday season. He offers the following tips to help you stay safe:

 

Before you travel:

    * Avoid car maintenance scams by;

           Schedule a check of your vehicle with a trusted auto repair shop

           Ensure the shop is affiliated with a group such as AAA or uses ASE certified technicians

           Watch as your car is repaired and review your bill before leaving the shop

 

    * Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to watch your house and pick up your mail and newspapers

       while you are away.

 

    * Make sure your house looks "lived-in" when you are away. Lock all doors and windows. Set

       household lights (inside and out) on timers and have a neighbor park his or her car in your

       driveway to make it appear as if someone is at your home at all times.

 

    * File a "travel Plan". Let someone know where you are going, the route you plan to take and

       when you plan to arrive. If you deviate from the plan let someone know.

 

Watch out for Clever Criminals:

    * Do not stop if your car is bumped from behind or if someone says there is something wrong

       with your car. Go to a service station or well lit, populated area and call for help.

 

    * Fill the gas tank before dark and lock your car doors, roll up your windows if you step away

       from your car for any reason.

 

    * Never leave items of value such as cell phones, cameras, jewelry, or other expensive items

       visible in your car. Lock them in your trunk or take them with you.

 

Enjoy your time away:

    * Carry money separately from credit cards. Carry your purse close to your body and your

       wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket.

 

    * Ask the hotel desk to tell you quietly the hotel room number. Do not overburden yourself

       with luggage to avoid being an easy target.

 

    * Use deadbolt and other locks provided by the hotel. Including all locks on all guest room

       entry and connecting room doors.

 

    * Never open the door for a stranger. Only open the door for hotel staff if you requested their

       presence.

 

 

 

Have a Safe and joyous Holiday season: Sheriff Jeffery Wiley and the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office.