If You Are Traveling Away From Home:

• Have a neighbor or a friend check on your house every one or two days.
• Install an automatic timer for your lights.
• Stop your mail and newspaper delivery for the days you are gone.

If You Are Away For the Evening:

• Keep the lights or the TV on so that it looks like someone is home.
• Don't set gifts near windows where they can be seen from outside.

If You Are Shopping:

• Park in a well-lighted space. Shop before dark if possible.
• Hide the shopping bags and presents in the trunk.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• If possible, put your wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or pants.
• Have your keys ready when you return to the car.
• Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a sales clerk or the customer service desk if you get separated.

If You Are In Your House:

• Keep your house doors and car doors locked at all times.
• Burglars sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts or as collectors of money for a charity.
• Remember: if you do not know the person or he/she looks suspicious, do not open the door. A real courier will likely wear a uniform with the logo of his company, or it will be prominently displayed on the vehicle.
• Create or update your house property inventory. Take photos or video of such valuables as jewelry, electronics (TVs, DVD players, and computers), home office equipment, furniture, and house appliances.
• After Christmas, don't put the boxes from your new electronics or other gifts next to your trash can where anyone can see them. Break the boxes down and fold them inside out.