Holiday Safety and Theft Prevention
In an effort to keep you safe this holiday season, the University of Miami Police Department (UMPD) would like to share some safety and theft prevention tips to help you safeguard yourself and your property. The holidays attract thieves looking for items to steal whether it's packages left on your porch or valuables left inside of your vehicle. Eliminate all opportunities for a theft to occur by following the guidelines below:
At Home:
- Be sure to lock all doors and secure all entryways into your residence, even if you are close by or only leaving for a few minutes.
- Put all valuables out of sight. Packages and shopping bags in view attract thieves.
- Lock your vehicle to protect against car hoppers. (Car Hopping is a crime that involves a person or groups of people walking around a neighborhood/area with a lot of cars late at night and checking cars to see if they are unlocked.)
- When leaving home for an extended time, ask a neighbor or family member to watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
- Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
- Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
In Parking Lots:
- Hide all valuables in the trunk. Do not leave items exposed.
- If you stop somewhere after shopping, place all bags in the trunk.
- Approach your vehicle alert and aware that thieves linger in parking lots.
- If you feel that you are being targeted or followed, do not drive home; instead, go to the closest police station or call 911.
When Traveling:
- Stick to well-lit and well-traveled or heavily populated areas whenever possible. Keep valuables out of sight when not in use.
- Avoid distractions while walking, such as texting, talking on a cell phone at length, or reading, so you can be observant and better monitor your surroundings. This includes the use of earbuds and headphones, which can reduce your ability to hear what is happening around you.
- When approaching the ATM, be alert for anything suspicious, especially two or more people in a nearby vehicle, particularly if no one else is at the ATM, or someone appears to be "hanging" around the area.
- If you need to visit the ATM, particularly after dark, take a companion along if possible. Park close to the ATM in a well-lit area.
Remember: Report all suspicious persons and activity immediately by calling UMPD at (305) 284-6666.
UMPD wishes you and yours a safe and happy holiday season!
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