Make holiday safety plans now Published Dec. 10, 2010 By Maj. Joseph Musacchia 21st Security Forces Squadron commander PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- As we near Christmas, there are a few things the 21st Security Forces Squadron would like to share about holiday safety. Holiday shopping season is a peak time for crimes such as home burglaries, thefts, and even muggings. Property crimes are the major concern in the Colorado Springs area and actually have had an increase of 11 percent in the last year. But taking extra precautions can mitigate your chances of falling victim to any of these criminal acts. Follow these crime prevention tips while shopping and at home to ensure a more safe holiday season. While out shopping, stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you; a little bit of pre-planning can go a long way. If possible, shop with a friend or a family member. There is safety in numbers. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If possible, pay for purchases with a check, credit or a debit card. If you must carry a purse, do not wrap the straps around your arms or shoulders. Carry it by clutching the purse tightly under your arm. Don't carry a wallet in a back pocket. It should be placed in a front pocket of pants or an inside pocket of a jacket. Don't tempt thieves by carrying "high dollar" shopping bags. If possible, slip bags or packages in a plain, nondescript bag and have your car keys ready in hand before leaving the store. A burglar's dream items are MP3 players, cell phones, laptop computers, GPS systems, satellite radios and other small electronic devices left in plain view in a car. Ensure these small items are concealed as to not attract a thief's attention. Educate your children about what to do if they are lost as well as "stranger danger" reminders. While at home, be extra cautious about locking doors and windows at all times and be vigilant about who is around you. Follow these helpful tips: Keep the outside of your home well lit with doors locked and window curtains and blinds closed. After the holidays, don't advertise gifts received with boxes left for the garbage collection or by displaying gifts beneath the Christmas tree that can be seen from window or doors. Burglars are tempted by valuables left in plain view. If you go on vacation, get an automatic timer for your lights. Ask a neighbor or trusted friend to watch your house, pick up the mail and newspapers and park their car in your driveway from time to time. Beware of package deliveries where couriers have the "wrong" address. Write down tag numbers of suspicious delivery attempts. We can never be too careful, prepared or aware. Share this information with family, friends and neighbors. Schedule family discussions to ensure they understand crime prevention and personal safety measures that will help your family have a safe holiday season. Finally, have a safe and happy holiday season from everyone at the 21st Security Forces Squadron.