The following holiday shopping information was suggested by our Neighborhood Patrolling Officer, Thom Taylor. 

Dear Clarkson Valley Resident, 

The Holiday Season is upon us again.  Unfortunately, the increase in retail activity brought on by the Holiday Season also brings about an increase in certain types of crime.  Following the tips provided below may help you to avoid some of these problems: 

• Do not withdraw large amounts of money from the bank at one time, especially at ATM’s.
• When you go to the bank or ATM, try to go during daylight hours.
• Be on the lookout for con artists – people offering something for nothing.
• When shopping, keep your money in a secure location.  Maintain vision or control of your purse/wallet.
• Do not display or carry large sums of money when you shop.
• If you make purchases with credit cards, make sure you keep the carbon paper from the receipts, or observe it being destroyed.
• Beware of giving your credit card number over the phone.
• Keep your car locked, and purchased items should be placed in your trunk where they cannot be observed.
• Do not leave items in your car overnight (telephone, radar detector, etc.).
• When going to or from your car at a bank and/or shopping center, be on the lookout for suspicious people Do NOT approach your car if suspicious people are in the area.  Go back into the business and notify security or call the police.
• Take extra steps to secure your home.  Do not leave gifts by doors or windows where thieves can see them.

Due to everyone’s awareness of terrorism being heightened, we remind everyone to remain calm and confident in their local, state and federal law enforcement agencies and to report anything that appears suspicious or threatening. 

I hope these tips will help us have a safe and happy Holiday Season.  All of the police officers in the West County Precinct would like to wish you and your families all the best.