This holiday season, residents are encouraged to follow these important safety tips:
Carry your wallet in your front pocket, or your purse zipped up and slung in front of you. Do not carry large amounts of cash or unnecessary credit cards. Shop with a friend if possible so that you can look out for each other. Be alert for pickpockets.
If you need a safety escort to your vehicle, talk with a store manager and/or call 911 to request one.
Prevent thefts from vehicles by placing purchased items in your trunk (out of plain view).
Keep your home well-lit during the evening, making use of dusk-to-dawn lamps, motion-detecting lights, and timed lighting. Keep landscaping trimmed.
If you are leaving on vacation, call 219-836-6630 to notify our police department and also notify your trusted neighbors. Never post anything on social media or your front door advising that you will be gone.
Be aware of anyone who calls you or comes to your door asking for donations for needy individuals. Only provide donations directly to charities that you trust. Never give your personal information, social security number, or bank account number over the phone to someone who you do not know.
Be aware of strangers asking to shovel your snow. Only allow trusted persons to do so and never allow strangers into your home.
Report suspicious individuals in parking lots or who are around your neighborhood immediately to the police department by calling 911.