Holiday Season 2015

Hello Friends,

Before you know it the holiday season will be knocking on our doors! It’s such a fun and excited time of the year but it can also be a time for the thieves to lurk.

Many people will be on the roads, travelling to see friends and family. That means that we will be leaving our homes unoccupied. Make sure your doors are locked, windows secured and you contact your local law enforcement to request extra patrol while you are gone from your residence for an extended period of time. If possible ask a trusted person to stay at your house while you are gone.

While you are out looking for those great bargains so are the thieves. They are hoping to cash in on your savings. Always, always, always be aware of your surroundings. If something doesn’t seem right or someone looks suspicious then go with your instinct. It’s better to be safe than sorry so take a moment and contact your local law enforcement and let them check out the situation.

This is such a fun time of the year but it’s always a fun time for the thieves also. Make sure you are locking your vehicle while shopping. Do not leave valuable items in plain view. Never leave your purse or wallet in your vehicle. Place items in the trunk out of sight and when you get home take the items out of your vehicle immediately.

Also, be careful of someone offering to help you carry items to your vehicle or inside your home. We all want to make just one trip and help seems harmless but unfortunately you are allowing them to distract you while they can unsuspectingly survey your home, run off with your items or even cause harm to you. Make yourself a hard target by being alert. Have your keys ready and accessible to open your door quickly. Park as close as you can to the store. As we know parking lots will be full during the shopping season so try to park under a light or in a well-lit area.

Scammers are working all year long but during the holidays they come at you full force in hopes that you will be in the holiday spirit and feel charitable! Giving to the needy during the holidays is very important and also admirable. Just make sure you check out the charity that you are asked to donate to. If someone comes to the door DO NOT let them into your house. If you are unsure about anything then do not open your door and call your local law enforcement. If it seems too good to be true then it is!

While traveling, leave a little early so you don’t feel rushed. When rushed we tend to drive a little faster than we should or become impatient with other drivers. Slow down, obey traffic laws but also watch out for other drivers that may be rushing or distracted. Texting while driving is against the law but that’s not the only thing that can distract you while driving. It only takes a second for an accident to happen and we want you to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones.

Some may consume “holiday spirits,” but please be sure to have a designated driver. We do not want you to celebrate the holidays from a hospital, jail or worse. PLEASE do not drink and drive. Be responsible.

These tips are helpful for this busy and chaotic holiday season but don’t dismiss them once the holidays have passed. Keep these thoughts in mind year-long.

From all of us at the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office we wish you a very happy, healthy, safe and absolutely joyous holiday season!!!

Your Johnson County Sheriff,

Larry Jones