Holiday Safety Tips

Sheriff Adrian Garcia—December 9th, 2011

The Sheriff wants to make sure that Harris County residents stay safe and secure during the holiday season. Check out his list of holiday safety tips.

While Shopping:

  • Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t get so distracted that you fail to pay attention to what is going on around you.
  • Shop during daylight hours whenever possible and in groups of two or more.
  • Park in well-lit areas. Walk out to the parking lot along with other shoppers (there’s safety in numbers!) or ask mall security to escort you to your vehicle.
  • Observe while loading and unloading items into your car. If anything appears unusual and you sense impending danger, make sure that you avoid it at all costs.
  • Lock your car and hide your valuables. When returning to your car, get in and lock the doors immediately.
  • Avoid carrying a purse. Put your money, credit card and identification in your front pocket.
  • Free your hands. Avoid carrying too many bags. Make several trips to your car if necessary and secure your merchandise in the trunk.
  • Have your keys in hand before leaving the store so you are not searching for them in an unsecured parking lot.

While Away from Home:

  • Turn on lights, a television or radio so that it appears that someone is home.
  • Secure all doors and windows, even if you’re only gone for a few minutes.
  • Don’t display holiday gifts where they can be seen from the outside.
  • Don’t leave packages on your doorstep. Have them delivered to your office or arrange for pick up.
  • When returning home, make sure no one is following you. Before exiting your vehicle, check your surroundings. If you believe someone is following you, try to get a license plate number and vehicle description. Stay on main roadways and avoid isolated streets and cul-de-sacs. Go to an occupied and lighted location, such as a grocery store, fire station or police station. Call for help.

While Traveling:

  • Ask a neighbor to watch your house.
  • Use automatic timers for your lights.
  • Stop your mail and newspaper deliveries.

Report suspicious or criminal activity. 

Download the iWatchHarrisCounty app and text in your non-emergency tips.