Full Notification

The McHenry County Sheriff’s Office would like to share with you some crime prevention tips for a safe holiday season.

Shopping Safety Tips:
• Shop during daylight hours when possible. Consider coordinating shopping trips with a friend and park in well lit areas.
• Lock your vehicle and put packages and gifts in your trunk or out of sight.
• Only carry the personal identification, credit card/debit card, checkbook, or cash that you will be using during that trip.
• Do not overburden yourself with carrying a lot of packages. You want to be able to still be observant of your surroundings and to be able to get to your cell phone and keys if needed.
• Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if you become separated. Also educate them to never go into a parking lot alone.
• Educate your children of the dangers of strangers and to go to a safe, trusted person when they are scared and not close to you.

Traveling Safety Tips:
• Travel with warm clothes and plenty of fuel. Consider bringing a flashlight with you. Bring emergency supplies with you, including a charged cell phone, in case you become stranded.
• Keep snacks and drinks in the vehicle.
• When stopping for a break, do not leave valuables in view of others.
• Park or rest in well lit and traveled areas.
• Let others know your travel or shopping plans and update them if they change.
• Like always, do not drink alcoholic beverages and drive. If you host a holiday party, serve non-alcoholic beverages for those driving or provide alternative transportation.

Sheriff Keith Nygren and the McHenry County Sheriff’s Office wish you a safe and happy holiday season.