GAINESVILLE - While the Christmas season is a time of faith, family, friends and holiday cheer for many, Gainesville Police say it's also an opportune time for criminals.
Gainesville Police Sgt. Kevin Holbrook said it's a season when his department sees an increase in property crime. He said during the hustle and bustle of the season, often residents forget common sense things to protect their homes and vehicles.
As in the summer months, many people travel over the holidays, leaving their home vunerable to burglary. To help cut down on the likelihood of crime, Holbrook said having a good neighbor is an advantage.
"They can keep a close watchful eye over your residence."
Holbrook said a couple strategies involve making your property appear to criminals as if you're home. Residents can have someone pick up their mail and newspapers. Holbrook also recommended leaving a light on in the house, or putting it on a timer.
In addition to the house, vehicles left in the driveway while homeowners are away can be a target. Holbrook said not to leave any loose items visible in the vehicle. That includes items like GPS systems, phone chargers and cables.
He said those items are an indicators to criminals that items of higher value may be stashed in glove boxes or consoles.
Like the home, Holbrook said to let a neighbor know if a vehicle will be outside while you're away. He also said to double check that the vehicle is locked.
For extra protection, the Gainesville Police Department offers an out-of-town check service for home owners within city limits.
Another risk for homeowners over the holidays involves package theft with the rise in online shopping.
"Unfortunately, delivery companies such as UPS, FedEx, the postal service, they drive around in those marked vehicles. They park those trucks right out in front of your homes. They're advertising that you're getting those packages, so it's very easy for the criminals to know when and where those packages are going to be," Holbrook said.
Holbrook said to follow the tracking information on your packages so you known about when they'll arrive at your house. The key, he said, is to get them inside as soon as possible.
If possible, Holbrook said to ship packages to a neighbor who will be home or to your workplace.
In addition to property loss prevention, Holbrook said traffic safety is another key area to be vigilant over the holidays. Police urge motorists to buckle up and avoid distractions, like texting and driving.
"Be calm. Be courteous. It is that time of year when people are stressed, and that does weigh heavily with time of year, so use a little bit of extra and caution as you do travel," Holbrook said.
