Calvert County Sheriffs Office Safety Tips

Stay Safe with these Safety Tips from the Calvert County Sheriff's Office

1. Criminals are always looking for an opportunity to make an easy score. To protect yourself and your valuables, the sheriff’s office would like to recommend the following safety tips:
2. Shop during the daytime hours whenever possible.  When shopping at night, park in well lit areas near your destination.
3. When possible, don’t shop alone. Take a friend or relative along. It may take a bit longer, but there is safety in numbers.
4. Always lock your car and roll up your windows, even if you will “only be gone for a minute.”  A minute is all a thief needs to separate you from your valuables. If you have an alarm, utilize it.
5. Lock your purchases in your trunk. Never leave them in plain sight on the seats or the floorboard. If you don’t have a trunk, cover them with a blanket or something similar.
6. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and don’t advertise large amounts of cash in public. You never know who may be watching. Use credit and debit cards when possible.
7. If you use an ATM at the mall, be aware of who may be around you. Try not to make large cash withdrawals. The malls are usually crowded and this makes it easy for a criminal to catch you off guard and grab your cash.
8. Always choose a bank ATM in visible, well lit areas. If you notice anyone suspicious approaching, cancel your transaction and leave.
9. Never leave your purse in a shopping cart. Make sure it is always zipped or snapped shut. When dining out, never hang your purse on your chair. Keep it in your lap or on the floor in front of you.
10. Avoid carrying too many packages that may make you a target. It’s better to make regular trips to the car to drop off packages while shopping.
11. Do not get into your car if you are followed or are suspicious of anyone hanging around your vehicle.  Instead, return to the mall or store and ask security for assistance.
12. Save your most expensive purchases for the end of your shopping trip.
13. Watch for people who may bump into you or distract you in some other way. They may be setting you up for pick-pocketing.
14. When leaving the mall, don’t talk on your cell phone. Be aware of what’s going on around you. Also, have your keys ready in your hand. Lots of packages and fumbling through your purse or pockets for your keys makes you an easy target.
15. Be alert and aware of strangers who may approach you for whatever reason.  Following these simple rules will help keep you from becoming a crime victim. If you see any suspicious activity, immediately report it to store security or the local police.