Crime & Safety

HCSO Offers Holiday Safety Tips

Patch talked to Deputy Chris DePolis in District 1, which includes Northdale

With the holiday season in full swing, Patch talked to Deputy Chris DePolis of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office's about holiday safety tips during one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year.

Here are a few things suggested by DePolis in the District 1 Neighborhood Watch Bulletin:

  • Lock your doors and windows when leaving the house, even if it's only for a moment.
  • Don't display gifts where they can be easily seen from a window or a doorway.
  • If you leave town for the holidays, put on interior/exterior lights and motion detectors to make it appear that you're home.
  • When shopping, always be aware of your surroundings by parking in well-lit, visible and highly-trafficked areas.
  • Teach children to go to a front desk or information kiosk or find a security guard if they become separated from you.
  • Always lock your car, and keep purchases out of sight by putting them in the trunk.
  • Finally, ladies: Keep your purse under your arms and not in a shopping cart. Men: Keep your wallet in an inside jacket pocket or front pants pocket.

To contact the sheriff's office, call 813-247-8115.

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