Beware of danger during the holidays

The holiday season brings with it an increase in vehicle burglaries, identity theft and other crimes, according to the Ventura County Sheriff's Department, which offers tips to lessen the chances of becoming a victim by removing opportunities for criminals to act.

When shopping

Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and don't carry a purse or wallet, if possible.

Always carry a California driver's license or ID card, along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use; don't carry credit cards that you are not going to use.

Stay alert to the surroundings; avoid people who are loitering in parking lots for no apparent reason.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; if you have to carry it, be discrete when paying for merchandise.

Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused. Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse; they are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas.

Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. Con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

When parking

Roll up the windows, lock the vehicle, take the keys and don't leave valuables in the car. If valuables must be left, ensure they are concealed, preferably in the trunk, and put them out of sight before reaching your destination. Don't wait until you arrive at a location to secure items in your trunk; thieves see this and may target your vehicle. Plan ahead and place items in the trunk ahead of time.

Hide packages, backpacks, gym bags, GPS units, iPods and anything that a criminal might think has valuables in it.

SUVs and pickups are common targets because they don't have a trunk to hold valuables. The thieves know this, and they can check glove compartments, behind seats and under seats in a matter of seconds.

During hours of darkness, park and walk in lighted areas whenever possible.

When on vacation

Ensure all doors and windows are locked, including garage and shed doors.

Keep bushes and shrubs trimmed under and around windows so burglars can't hide behind them.

Keep ladders stored in a locked shed or garage so they can't be used to climb into your home.

Keep shades and curtains closed over windows.

Make your home look like someone is there. Get timers for the lights and have someone collect mail and newspapers while you are gone. In addition to lights, consider putting a stereo or other type of audio device on a timer to help bolster the image that the residence is occupied.

Do yardwork before you leave, and if a vehicle is left at your residence, consider having a friend or family member move the vehicle occasionally. Be a good neighbor

Pay attention to what is going on in your neighborhood; know what cars and people belong.

Report all suspicious people, vehicles and activities to your local law enforcement agency.

Report all nonworking streetlights to the responsible public works entity.