Associated General Contractors
New Mexico Building Branch
1615 University Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87102-1791
505-842-1462
FAX: 505-842-1980
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Holiday Safety Tips

from the Albuquerque Police Department Crime Prevention Unit

Shopping And Out In Public

Always by aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts
Give some thought to what is considered “normal behavior” in a given environment. Ex. People do not typically stand around in parking lots. If you notice a suspicious person or activity in a parking lot, return to the store, ask for an escort and/or notify security or store personnel.
Always be aware of other people around you and make note of their behavior
Walk with authority, purpose and awareness
Park your vehicle as close to an entrance as possible or park in well lit, active locations
Lock all personal items in the trunk or away from view – roll up windows, take the keys and lock the doors
Keep all items inside your vehicle away from view. Any thing in full view could potentially by a target of opportunity.
Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle and limit the number of items in your hands
Get in you vehicle as soon as possible, lock the doors immediately and then get settled. (Note: Continue to be aware of persons in your area and keep your doors locked till you reach your next destination.)
Remove all visible targets that might make you a victim of a crime - WOMEN SHOULD NEVER CARRY A PURSE IN PUBLIC. Rather, carry only those items necessary for a particular trip. (Ex. Drivers license, medical card, some form of payment, like a debit card and a little bit of money.) Carry these items concealed from view.
If you choose to carry a defensive device like pepper spray – have proper training.
Panhandlers – Avoid panhandlers when ever possible. Their behavior could be potentially unpredictable. Do not give them cash or offer any kind of substitute, like food or other types of assistance. In most cases, cash will not be used for what they are suggesting. It will typically be used to support a substance abuse habit. Note: If you want to assist them, make a donation to one of several service providers available.)

Securing Your Residence Prior To Holiday Travel

Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your residence and report suspicious activity.
If possible, have a trusted friend or family member stay at your home.
Install automatic timers on lights, TV’s and radios
Do not have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. This information could fall into the wrong hands. Ask the trusted neighbor to collect them each day.
If you have a rollout trash dumpster, have a neighbor place it in the street on pick up day and return it that evening.
Ask a neighbor to park a vehicle in the driveway when ever possible
Be extra cautious about locking all doors and windows. All primary window locks should be operational and secondary locks should be installed.
Make sure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow for adequate visibility of your home
Make arrangements to have exterior lights on each night.
Each entrance should have solid core or metal doors and deadbolt locks.
Let neighbors, family and friends know when you plan to return from a trip.