Tips From The Martinez Police For Staying Safe This Season

'Tis the season to be careful. It's no secret that with all the revelry, shopping and frivolity of the season, also comes an increase in crime. Burglaries, thefts from cars, and other crimes tend to rise during the holidays.

Captain Eric Ghiletta of the Martinez Police Department has provided Martinez Patch with some timely seasonal tips on ways to stay safe and keep the holidays a time of joy and celebration.

"We need to take the time to protect ourselves," Ghiletta said. "This is the hot time for identity thieves and preventing identity theft is more pertinent now than ever. Take the time to check your credit card statements.  Most forms of holiday identity theft can be caught by frequently monitoring your checking, debit, and credit card accounts."

Burglaries are also on the rise this time of year, he said.

"Protect your homes. Remember to lock your doors and windows when you leave your residence. If you have an alarm system, set it.  Many burglaries are committed as crimes of opportunity, so the harder you make it, the less likely it will happen to you."

Also take the time to be at least a little cautious when shopping.

"Be aware of your surroundings," he said. "When shopping, take the time to secure your valuables out of eyesight to eliminate any chance of being victimized. Thieves will take the easy way out, so make it as difficult for them as possible. This is a time for sharing with our family and friends, so please enjoy a safe holiday season."