Gresham Police share holiday safety tips

Holiday lights and celebrations are just around the corner, and calendars are full of opportunities to gather with family and friends. It is also the month with the shortest days and many distractions, and with that comes the prospect of being vulnerable to theft and other crimes.

“It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings as you rush around this time of year”, says Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg. “By keeping in mind some simple safety tips, we hope to help our community avoid some of the most common crimes we see around the holidays.”

The Gresham Police Department wants everyone to enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday season. With that in mind, here are some safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe while you enjoy the holidays.

Car break-in and theft prevention

• Never leave your unattended car running.
• Do not leave valuables where they can be seen; lock them in the trunk or take them with you. (Including: purses, shopping bags, electronic devices, and firearms).
• Close and lock the windows and doors.
• Park in a well-lit area.
• Find your keys before heading to your car.
• Use an anti-theft device if possible.

Package theft prevention

• Request signature delivery.
• Deliver packages to a lockbox, office, or trusted neighbor
• Consider installing a camera and floodlight on your front porch.

Shopping safety

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
• If shopping at night, take extra caution.
• Use a credit card if possible
• If you must use cash, keep it in your front or inside pocket and do not carry large amounts.

Going out of town safety

• Do not announce your trip on social media; post pictures after you return.
• Make sure all your doors and windows are closed and locked.
• Use a “mail hold” or ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and package delivery.
• Set indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.
• Avoid driving if you are fatigued.

Celebrate responsibly

• It can be tough to speak up, but your courage could save a life. Don’t let friends and family drink and drive.
• Arrange for alternative transportation or a designated driver ahead of time
• Only time will eliminate alcohol from your body.

Protect your personal information

• Avoid giving personal information over the phone, via email, or social media.
• Be suspicious of texts or emails requiring immediate action.
• Contact your bank or credit card company directly if you are concerned about fraud.
• Monitor your transaction activity. 
• Safeguard your passwords and utilize multifactor authentication.
• Verify requests for donations. Use sites like Charity Navigator.

Take precautions while shopping online

• Be sure you are visiting a legitimate website.
• Verify site security.
• Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi.
• Set account alerts.

Above all, the Gresham Police Department is encouraging the community to be prepared and stay alert. If a crime does occur, please report it by calling 503-823-3333 or filing a report online.