Answer: When shopping, always park in well-lit areas and park
close to the entrance of a store.
Don't talk or text on a cell phone when walking to and
from your vehicle. Keep your full attention on your surroundings.
Don't electronically unlock your vehicle until you are
within door opening distance. This helps stop a thief from getting
into the car and waiting to strike when you least expect it.
If you are ready to leave a store and feel uneasy about entering
the parking lot by your self, stay in the store and request a
security escort.
Do not open your car door to anyone in a parking lot. If
you believe you are in danger, call 911 immediately.
Do not flash large amounts of cash or offer tempting
targets for theft such as expensive jewelry or clothing. Carry a
purse or shoulder bag close to your body, not dangling by straps.
Put your wallet in an inside pocket of your coat or front pants
pocket.
Do not fumble for house or car keys. Have them in your
hand, ready to use when you reach the door. ALWAYS
lock your car and residence, even if you are away for only a few
moments.
Do not leave valuables - gifts, cell phones, GPS, purses,
clothing, or gifts - in open view in your car. Take valuables with
you, lock them in your trunk, or cover them in an unobtrusive way.
Do leave lights turned on both inside and outside your
residence after dark. Criminals don't like bright places. If you
will be away from home for several days, make arrangements for
someone to pick up your mail and newspapers. An overstuffed mailbox
is a sure sign that no one is home, and burglars can be tempted to
check those envelopes for holiday gifts.
Do carry only the credit cards you intend to use and
leave the others behind. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use
checks or debit cards when possible.
Do use ATM's wisely. Have the card ready before
approaching the machine, and use only ATM's in high traffic areas.
Do not announce recently acquired gifts such as TV's or
other electronics by leaving boxes on the street for pickup. Turn
the boxes inside out and crush or fold those boxes to avoid letting
burglars know what Santa got you for Christmas.
Have a safe and Merry Christmas!
From the city of Lincoln Police Department
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Answer: Switch from incandescent lights -- which can be a
major fire hazard if not installed, maintained and monitored
carefully -- to LED lights which are energy-efficient and cooler to
the touch.
Indoors or outdoors, use only lights that have been UL-tested for
safety. If the box doesn't mention outdoor use, don't use them
outdoors.
Untangle cords, replace burned-out or missing bulbs, and check
each set of lights, new or old, for broken or cracked sockets,
frayed or bare wires, or loose connections. Throw out any damaged
sets.
Use no more than three standard-size sets of lights per single
extension cord. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the
intended use. Make sure extension cords aren't trip hazards.