Full Notification

Greetings, As we rapidly approach the holidays, we at the Palm Springs Police Department would like to offer some safety tips to help you, your neighbors, family and friends reduce the chances of being victimized by others during this season. Thieves and con men often prey upon the generous spirit and hectic agendas of people during this time of year. Please take the time to secure the safety of your family and residence by adhering to the following tips for home and personal safety: • Burglars view the holiday season as a time of opportunity to burglarize homes for cash, credit cards, and gifts. • Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave your house or apartment, even if just for a few minutes. • If you display a Christmas tree, do not exhibit it or any gifts in the front window so they are easily visible from the street. • Do not advertise the fact that you are not home – burglars look for occupancy cues like outdoor lights burning 24 hours a day, piled up newspapers, mail, or advertising fliers hanging on door knobs. Use an inexpensive light timer when you are away, and ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and newspapers. • Burglars know to look for the hidden door key near the front entrance. DO NOT hide spare keys under rocks, in flowerpots, under door mats, or above door ledges. Instead, give the spare key to a trusted neighbor or other person who could quickly respond to the location in the event of an emergency. • Do not post your family name on your mailbox or on your house. A burglar can call directory assistance to get your telephone number and call your home while in front of your home to confirm that you are away. Invest in a P.O. Box or a locking mailbox to further hinder a burglars’ ability to obtain personal information about you. • Do not leave descriptive messages on your telephone answering machine such as: “You have reached the Smiths; we are away skiing for the Holidays.” Burglars like to hear that they have plenty of time to access your home and take the items within. The same goes for social media. • Do not pile up empty gift boxes such as, from your new computer, DVD player, or stereo receiver on the street for the garbage collectors the day after Christmas or shortly thereafter. Break the boxes down or cut them up for disposal. • Everyone will be busy shopping and running errands in preparation for the season. Though you may be rushed and have many things on your mind, stay alert to your surroundings. If possible, coordinate shopping trips with a friend. • Do not park your vehicle in an unlit lot or area no matter how convenient it is. Make sure your valuables are not in plain view in your vehicle and keep your vehicle’s doors locked and windows closed. • Have your keys readily available in your hand before you go to your car and remain aware of your surroundings at all times as you make your way to your vehicle. When you return to your car, scan the interior to ensure no one is hiding inside. • Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. During this time of year, con men may work alone or in conjunction with others in an attempt to distract you with the intention of taking your money and/or belongings. The men and women of the Palm Springs Police Department would like to wish you a safe and wonderful holiday season!