Police chief reminds shoppers to be aware during holiday season

Robbery and larceny increase by roughly 20% each December, according to statistics, as people begin purchasing and ordering gifts for Christmas. Forrest City Police Chief Ronald Broussard recently offered tips to residents on ways to ensure their safety while shopping and how to not attract unwanted attention from criminals looking to break into homes. According to Broussard, boxes and other trash from gifts should be taken to local dumpster locations to prevent alerting potential criminals to the possession of certain items. "Coming into Christmas, people need to be vigilant with these big boxes that we get our gifts in," said Broussard. "We get these boxes and some people put them on the side of the road for trash. This lets thieves know there are things like big televisions, game systems or other valuable items in your house. The best thing to do is to take these boxes and things to dumpsters that are placed around town during the holidays." Broussard said that when shopping in public rather than online, people should remain aware of their surroundings and any potential threats. "Another helpful tip is to be aware of your surroundings as you go out to shop," said Broussard. "A good idea would be to shop at off times, like shopping early in the morning rather than later. If you plan to put your purse in your trunk, put it in the trunk before you leave home rather than when you get out of your vehicle at the mall or another store." According to Broussard, potential thieves will check a number of places for valuables in vehicles and could potentially target those they see putting things away before entering a store. "Thieves are watching everyone who pulls into a parking lot for those who cover up items or put them in the trunk at the store," said Broussard. "Places that thieves will look for valuables when they get into a vehicle include under the driver’s seat, in the glove box, the arm rest and the trunk. Those are the places that people tend to hide their valuables, so potential thieves will check those areas." Broussard said residents should also pay attention to their neighborhoods and look for things that seem out of place, such as people or vehicles. "We just want everyone to remain vigilant during this time of year," said Broussard. "A good neighbor, a nosy neighbor, keep your eyes open for strange vehicles or other strange goings on in your neighborhoods. Look for things or people that don't belong in the area and watch out for each other. “Also remember to watch for fire hazards, like using the properly rated cords for indoor and outdoor lighting,” he continued. “Don't use an extension cord if you don't have to. Close your curtains at a certain time of night. People don't have to see the tree, and this also prevents people from looking in and seeing what is inside." According to Broussard, the FCPD is planning two mobilizations during this holiday season in order to reduce the potential for intoxicated or inebriated drivers. "Also, people have parties during this time of year as well and some drink at these parties," said Broussard. "Please watch the consumption of alcohol. Know your limits and don't drink and drive. We will be doing two mobilizations leading up to Christmas. Make sure that if you do consume alcohol, do it in your own home or have a designated driver. "Be careful about letting your children come and go as they please as well," continued Broussard. "We don't want to be arranging funeral services for our children during this time. They should be burying us rather than us burying them. They are your responsibility so take ownership of it and make sure they are safe." Broussard encourages people to not hesitate to call the FCPD to report any suspicious activity they may notice. "We want to wish everyone a very merry Christmas and holiday season," said Broussard. "Remember to remain vigilant and careful during the holidays. Look out for your neighbors and your own home and make good choices. Do not hesitate to call the FCPD if you notice any suspicious activity or people in your neighborhood."

Police chief reminds shoppers to be aware during holiday season

SFC Health Unit hosting annual flu shot clinic in effort to make community safer

SFC Election Commission working to ensure internet access, security ready before Nov. 3 vote

New Homecoming Festival is Saturday at Hicky Field in FC

Brodie Johnson

Related Posts

SFC Health Unit hosting annual flu shot clinic in effort to make community safer

SFC Election Commission working to ensure internet access, security ready before Nov. 3 vote

New Homecoming Festival is Saturday at Hicky Field in FC

FC Mayoral candidates share goals to lead city

QCourt approves resolution on FCMC non-profit status

Mayoral candidates take center stage at tonight’s political forum

Winners named in annual FC Christmas Parade

Judge declares mistrial in murder case due to actions of prosecutors

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

Welcome Back!

Retrieve your password

Police chief reminds shoppers to be aware during holiday season

RELATED POSTS

Membership Required

Related Posts

Recent Posts

Recent Comments

Archives

Categories

Recent Posts

Welcome Back!

Retrieve your password