LAKEPORT, Calif. – With the holidays arriving, the Lakeport Police Department is asking community members to use caution and to beware in order to not be the victims of crime.
“‘Tis the Season to be Jolly. ‘Tis also the season of opportunity for the criminally minded. It is an unfortunate truth that during these holidays, there is an increase in the number of thefts and burglaries,” the department said its holiday safety reminder.
Police said “porch piracy,” vehicle and residential burglaries, and telephone/Internet scams increase at this time of year, and they’re asking city residents to themselves and police by following a few helpful tips.
Package delivery: Have your packages delivered to an address that is regularly attended such as work, a good neighbor, friends or family. If you are the address that is regularly attended, offer to be that delivery point for friends’ and families’ packages.
Preventing vehicle theft and burglaries: Lock your vehicles, try to park in well-lit areas or close to an occupied residence, and don’t leave expensive items in your vehicle or anything in plain view.
Preventing residential burglaries: Lock your residence, whether home or away. If you are going to be away from your home for an extended number of days, take advantage of the Lakeport Police Department’s online vacation check request. It is accessed through the “Community Portal” banner on the department’s web page located at www.cityoflakeport.com/police and let a good neighbor know. If you are home and see unusual or suspicious activities around your neighbors’ house, call the department’s friendly and responsive patrol staff at 707-263-5491, option 1, and report it.
Telephone/Internet scams: Be wary of telephone calls or internet messages soliciting donations and payments. Any request that involves “getting a gift card,” especially as payment, is likely a scam and should be looked into further.
Impaired drivers: During the holidays, there may also be an uptick in impaired drivers. Drive with caution and defensively. Don’t react to what a driver should do, but rather react to what they are actually doing and report anyone whom you feel is impaired. If it is you that are enjoying the season with alcoholic beverages, have a sober driver, wait until you are definitely sober enough to drive, or take advantage of the independent driving services available in this area.
The Lakeport Police Department said it wishes the community a happy and safe holiday season.
Lakeport Police Department urges community members to be on the lookout this holiday season
- Lake County News reports
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