The following is a list of safety tips to keep in mind as winter and the season of holidays and longer nights approaches. They come from the National Crime Prevention Council.

IF YOU’RE TRAVELING

• Get an automatic timer for your lights.
• Ask a neighbor to watch your home, shovel snow, and park in the driveway from time to time.
• Don’t forget to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. If it piles up, it’s a sure sign you’re gone.

IF YOU’RE OUT FOR THE EVENING

• Turn on lights and a radio and TV so it looks like someone is home.
• Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave, even if it is just for a few minutes.
• Don’t display gifts where they can be seen from the outside.

 IF YOU’RE SHOPPING

• Stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you.
• Park in a well lighted space, and be sure to lock your car, close the windows, and hide shopping bags and gifts in the trunk.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash; pay with a check or credit card whenever possible.
• Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers. Don’t overburden yourself with packages. Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse close to your body, not dangling by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket.
• Shopping with kids? Teach them to go to a store clerk or security guard if you get separated.

 IF A STRANGER COMES TO THE DOOR, BEWARE

Criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. And it’s not uncommon for people to try and take advantage of others’ generosity by going door to door for charitable contributions when there’s no charity involved. Ask for identification, and find out how the funds will be used. If you aren’t satisfied, don’t give. Help a charitable organization you know and like instead.

 Last but not least, don’t let holiday stress get the best of you. Make time to get together with family, friends, and neighbors. And think about reaching out and helping someone who’s less fortunate or lonely.

 -Crime prevention tips from the National Crime Prevention Council, Washington, DC www.weprevent.org