The holidays are right around the corner! With so many places to shop and things to do, the Pasadena Police Department has a few tips to make your holidays a little safer.

• Shop with a friends or family member, especially at night, to discourage would-be criminals. The “buddy system” helps ward off would-be criminals.

• Park near lighted areas and in plain view of shops and shoppers. Criminals don’t like surveillance cameras, so park near a camera if possible. Don’t linger. Have your keys in hand and be ready to unlock, enter, and lock your doors quickly. If you’re approached by someone before you arrive at your car, return to the store or where other shoppers are.

• Be alert and observant. Before exiting your vehicle or leaving a store, take the time to look around. If you see someone or something that makes you uneasy report it to police, store security or other employees. Trust your instincts!

• When in doubt, ask for a store employee or security guard to escort you to your car. There’s no shame in asking for help and most stores are happy to do it.

• Only carry essential credit cards, and limit cash and ID to minimize potential loss and risk of identity theft. If you carry a purse, wear it high on the shoulder or, when possible, underneath a jacket or sweater.

• If someone does take your property, never fight over it or give chase. Your belongings can be replaced. Instead, make lots of noise, scream and yell “Help, thief!” Point in his or her direction and try to provide police with a complete description of the suspect, vehicles and direction of travel. If there’s nobody around, go to a safe place and
call 9-1-1.

• Program the Pasadena Police Department’s direct line – 744-4241 – into your cell phone. This will save time, since most 9-1-1 calls from cell phones must be rerouted to the appropriate agency.