Full Notification

The Kern County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit would like to provide some helpful tips for citizens to keep in mind as they begin their travels this holiday season.

The holiday season is upon us, and during the Thanksgiving holiday many families will be traveling to spend time with family and friends. The Kern County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind people to think safety first when traveling. Follow these simple tips to make your holiday season as safe as possible:

Prepare your home:

Take steps to make sure your home appears occupied and it is not apparent that you are away on vacation.
Stop newspaper delivery and have a neighbor get your mail/check your residence for packages.
Ask a neighbor to leave trash at your curb on trash pickup days.
Use automated light timers and leave a radio or television on.
Lock all doors and window and double check them before you leave - and set your alarm!
Call your local law enforcement and request extra patrol checks for your residence, letting them know you will be out of town.
Do not post travel plans on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter letting people know you will be out of town.

On the road:

Don’t carry large sums of cash. Use traveler’s checks or credit cards whenever possible.
Always have a charged cell phone with you.
NEVER text or dial a phone call when you are driving. Pull over to read maps or enter a destination in your vehicles GPS system.
Plan your route carefully. Have map print-outs of your location – even if you have a GPS in-car mapping system, just in case it doesn’t function properly.
In the case of a breakdown, turn on your flashers and open your hood to signify you need assistance. Stay in your vehicle with your doors locked if it is in a safe location off the main road. If your car breaks down on a busy highway or freeway, it is important to exit the vehicle safely, and find a safe location to wait for help without risk of a traffic collision.
Never drink and drive. If you or a loved one has had too much to drink, call a cab or stay at a friend or relatives house.

Out and About:

Carry your purse close to your body – don’t let it dangle. Carry your wallet in an inside coat or front pocket.
Never use a cross body strap on a purse. If someone comes to snatch your purse from you, do NOT resist or fight back. A purse and credit cards can be replaced.
Do your research on the area you are visiting. Ask a hotel employee or concierge about problem areas or areas to avoid.
Make sure all children traveling with you know the name of their parents, cell phone numbers, and the name of the hotel you are staying at.
Avoid isolated paths or roads – stick to well-lit and well used areas, trails and paths.
Never leave valuables in your hotel room.

For any additional tips on safe holiday travel or if you have any questions, please contact the Kern County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit at 661-391-7559 or by email at [email protected].