Anniston Army Depot

Tips for a safer and crime-free holiday season

At Home:

- Make sure all doors and windows have secondary locks (window pins, deadbolts, dowels, etc.) and use them!
- Don't hide spare keys in mailboxes or planters, or under doormats.
- Ensure that dark areas and entrances have outdoor lights that are turned on after dark or are activated by sensors.
- Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed so they do not conceal doors and windows. Remember, overgrown foliage can provide a hiding place for criminals.
- Place gifts where they can't be seen from the outside.
- Consider safe deposit boxes for coin and stamp collections, seldom-worn jewelry, stock bonds, etc.
- Be sure to mail cards, checks or gift certificates from the Post Office or at a blue U.S. Postal Service collection box. (Don't send Cash)
- Lock your vehicle and remove all the valuables. Yes, even in your driveway.

Strangers at your Door:

- Use caution anytime there is a stranger at your door.
- Be suspicious of unexpected sales calls or deliveries. Ask for identification.
- Be aware of scams that criminals commit to take advantage of people's generosity during the holidays.
- Investigate charities before making donations. Ask how the funds will be used.

Leaving for the Holidays:

- Ask a trusted friend, neighbor, or Neighborhood Watch member to watch your home.
- Use timers for lights and radios while you're away.
- Remember to plan for mail and newspapers pick-up.

After the Holidays:

- Don't advertise expensive toys, electronics, or other gifts received by the boxes left for garbage collections. Compress large boxes and place them in black garbage bags for pick-up.
- Add new items to your home inventory. Take photos or video of all items of value in your home and list each item's make, model, serial number, and other information.
- Engrave new items to help identify them in the event they are stolen.