We want to make sure you don't become a victim of a crime this busy shopping and traveling season.
The San Marcos Sheriff's Station is conducting extra patrols of shopping areas. Deputies are also checking on people who are on parole or probation. The checks will determine if they are complying with the conditions of their release and not returning to a life of crime. Three people were arrested during the sweeps in November.
Here are other tips to keep in mind when you are out and about or at home:
• When out at the malls and stores shopping, lock your car doors and take valuables with you.
• When storing items purchased at the stores, place them out of sight. The best place is in a locked trunk.
At Home
Always lock your doors and windows especially at night and when you're away.
• Avoid opening doors to strangers.
• Place gifts where they cannot be seen from outside your home.
• Sheriff's Crime Prevention Specialists offer a free security check to show vulnerabilities in your home. Call your local Station or Substation. For more information, visit sdsheriff.net/patrol.
• After opening presents, don't pile up empty gift boxes on the street. This gives burglars a hint of expensive items in your home. Instead, keep boxes inside until the night before your garbage pickup. If you see someone casing your alley, report suspicious activity to the Sheriff's non-emergency line at (858) 565-5200.
When Going on Vacation
• Lock up your home and activate your alarm.
• Don't share your plans on social media.
• Sign up for a FREE vacation check so Sheriff's Senior Volunteer Patrol (SVP) members can keep an eye on your home. Visit sdsheriff.net.
• Hold the delivery of your mail and newspaper or ask a trusted friend to pick them up for you.
• Ask a neighbor to occasionally park in your driveway.
