Bowie Police Offer Holiday Crime Prevention Tips

T'is the season for holiday cheer, and for holiday crime.

Most Bowie residents are probably planning their holiday shopping lists and home decoration lists, but Bowie Police also want people to be aware of targeted holiday crimes and prevention methods.

This Thursday, the Bowie Police are hosting a holiday crime prevention seminar for residents to offer them tips and advice on how to be alert and aware.

“All of it is targeted around the shopping season, but it can also be used in everyday life,” said Sgt. Bennie Henderson about the tips and strategies he will offer residents later this week.

Tips will include advice on preventing homes from burglars and protecting individuals from property and identity theft.

Leaving town for the holidays?

“Don’t let people know you are leaving town, use a light timer and let neighbors know to pick up your mail,” Henderson said.

Residents leaving town can also call the police department and let it know the dates they'll be gone and emergency contact information. Officers will be provided with a list of out-of-town residents and they will check on the homes during the course of the day, said Henderson. Bowie police provide these vacation check-ins year round, not just during the holidays.

Other tips from Henderson include keeping windows closed and locked to prevent burglary; keeping little cash and only a few credit cards on your person to prevent identity theft. He also suggests dropping your shopping bags off at your car and moving parking spaces frequently while shopping.

Want to know more? Check out the Holiday Crime Prevention Seminar at the Bowie Police Department at 7 p.m. on Nov. 15. All are welcome and no reservations are required.