Lone Star College Police Department offers safety tips for the upcoming holiday season

HOUSTON, TX -- With less than a month left in 2022, crowds at area malls, shops, restaurants and other public businesses are increasing in anticipation of the holidays.

The Lone Star College Police Department offers annual holiday safety tips to help citizens stay safe, protect their property and enjoy the upcoming festivities. These guidelines can also help protect the public against thieves who view this time of year as a criminal opportunity.

“As we approach the holiday season, we need to keep personal, home and shopping safety in mind,” said Paul Willingham, LSC Senior Associate Vice Chancellor of Public Safety and Chief of Police. “These tips can help reduce the chance of becoming a victim by lessening opportunities for criminals to rip you off and ruin your holiday.”

To prevent or minimize burglary at your home, the LSC Police Department advises everyone to:

• Keep lights on and set the alarm (if applicable) while you are away at night.

• Install motion sensor floodlights around the outside of the home.

• Schedule deliveries when someone is home, have them sent to trusted neighbors or set up a receiving location at your local mailbox store.

“Many people like to keep their gifts displayed in the home before or after the holidays. Although this gives us a warm feeling, it makes our home vulnerable to criminals,” said Willingham. “Keep your curtains closed so your gifts are not visible. Do not leave gift packaging trash on the curb.”

The LSC Police also offers practical ways for people to shop safely in public. Those guidelines include the following:

• Pay attention to your surroundings and shop with a friend or relative during the daytime.

• Use credit cards when possible and avoid withdrawing cash from ATMs.

• Secure packages, electronic devices, briefcases and other valuables in the trunk or out of view.

• Do not wear flashy jewelry or anything that would draw attention to yourself.

“Remember, you are not the only one doing your holiday shopping at this time of the year,” said Willingham. “Burglars and thieves are always on the lookout for a ‘good bargain.’”


Visit LoneStar.edu/Campus-Police for more information on the LSC Police Department and other general safety tips.