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Happy Holidays from the men and women of the Gardena Police Department. The holiday are in full swing, as are all the sales by the many different merchants in the area. Though this is a festive time of year, it also has the potential of being a time when criminals try to capitalize on a lack of attention and an abundance of targets.

Police Departments nationwide are increasing their efforts to protect citizens while they are out in public during the holidays, but we cannot be everywhere. We need your help. By utilizing some common sense and simple precautions we can all make the holiday shopping season a fun, exciting, and much safer time for everyone. Here are a few tips that will make this an enjoyable holiday shopping season.

1. Dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes.

2. Shop during the daylight hours if at all possible.

3. If shopping after dark, park in a well lit parking area and shop with a group.

4. Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry when shopping.

5. Carry proper identification at all times.

6. Do not carry large amounts of cash on your person.

7. Pay for purchases with credit or debit cards when you can.

8. Be alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.

9. Store your purchases in a locked vehicle out of site or in the trunk. Remember that a "cloak of invisibility" (IE: a coat or blanket) does not really make things impossible to see.

10. Carry all cash in your front pocket.

11. Do not leave the mall or store overloaded with items that will restrict your movements and vision.

12. Be alert for strangers loitering in the parking lot, if do not feel safe going to your vehicle request an escort.

13. Lock your car door. Possibly the easiest thing to do to enhance your safety.

14. Trust your gut feeling or sixth sense. If you feel threatened, then act on those instincts.

15. Have your keys ready when you leave the store, be ready to unlock you car door.

16. Bring your cell phone with you while you shop.

17. Instruct your children to find a store clerk or security personnel if they get lost.