The most wonderful time of the year is in full swing with festive parties, visits with Santa, crowded shopping malls and unfortunately an increase in theft and property crimes.  So while you are enjoying the sights, sounds and shopping extravaganzas of the season, to help you remain safe and not a victim of crime, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Robbery Section recommends these tips to follow while you are:
 
Out and About

• Shop during daylight hours when possible and shop with a friend – safety in numbers!
• Be aware of your surroundings.  Pay attention to who is around you, what they are doing and what activities are going on.  Be aware of someone watching you or following you – you should notice who is around you!
• Don’t overload your arms with packages and bags while shopping.  Clear visibility and freedom of movement are important self-protection habits.
• Pick your parking spots wisely.  Look for a well-lit area.  If you own a small car, try not to park next to a large vehicle, which can block your vision, or other citizen’s view of you while you are entering or exiting your vehicle.
• Do not leave your vehicle unattended while the engine is running, even if you are only going to be away from it for mere seconds.
• Have your keys out and ready when approaching your vehicle.
• Be aware of how you carry your purse or wallet.  Would it be easy for someone to take it?  Remove any unnecessary items and leave them at home.
• Try to carry only the amount of cash you will need to make your purchases and limit the number of credit cards to only the ones necessary for your current shopping trip.
• Keep a list of all credit cards, along with contact phone numbers for each card and keep it in a safe place.  This will help in the event they are lost or stolen.
• Discuss various situations with your children.  What will they do if you are separated?  What will they do if approached by a stranger?  What will you do?
• Practice an exercise used often by police and military called Crisis Rehearsal.  Consider what you would do in various stressful situations.  Go through the plan in your mind.  If you practice this and then are faced with an unusual situation, you will be able to think more clearly and react more calmly because you have already rehearsed it. 

In Your Car

• Don’t drive without first locking your doors and closing your windows.
• When walking out to your car, try not to do it alone.  Go with a friend, or when there is another group walking out as well. 
• Walk to your car with purpose
• Do not exit your car if you see a suspicious situation.  If you are in doubt, or are approached, drive away!
• If you are being followed, go to a populated public place and call the police.
• Do not let anyone approach you on foot, while in the drive through ATM machine.
• Avoid shortcuts that take you through unfamiliar or unsafe areas
• When stopped in traffic, leave enough room between your car and the one in front of you, in the event you need to pull away quickly.

For more information on how you can remain safe in your home and community, visit www.lvmpd.com and select the “Protect Yourself” tab where you will find additional Crime Prevention information. 
All of us at Home Life Concierge wish you and your family a safe and happy holiday season!
 
About Us
Home Life Concierge, LLC is a personal assistant and lifestyle management company based in Las Vegas, Nevada.  Designed for everyday folks, professionals, families and seniors, we are here for you and your Life’s To-Do’s.  Call HLC at 702-964-9800 for a FREE consultation.  We are fully licensed, bonded and insured.