Stay safe with holiday travel and shopping tips from the Monroe Police Department

Monroe Police Department Chief Eugene Ellis and the men and women of the MPD are asking travelers and shoppers to take extra precautions over the holidays so everyone can have a safe and enjoyable season.

Traveling tips

Allow adequate time for commuting due to increased traffic for the Thanksgiving holidays.  

Tell a trusted neighbor when you are leaving town and if anyone will be visiting your property while you are gone.

Ask your neighbor to pick up your mail, newspapers, etc. to keep items from piling up and indicating your absence.

Leave a light on and make sure any motion-activated lights and cameras are operational.

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Shopping safety tips

Stay off the phone when you’re exiting a store. Detective Chris Bates said it is important to keep an eye on your surroundings without distractions as you make your way through a crowded parking lot to the car. This helps avoid accidents with vehicles and any unsafe situations. 

Keep your keys in your hand to quickly enter your vehicle or open your trunk without putting down packages. 

Check your vehicle before entering.

Secure any packages you leave in your car while shopping in a concealed, secure location such as the trunk. If you do not have a trunk, use a blanket or cargo covering to keep your purchases out of plain sight. Bates said it is important to make sure items are not exposed in the vehicle. 

Remove purchases from your vehicle when you arrive home. Do not leave gifts in the car overnight. 

The MPD and other law enforcement agencies will have a heightened presence at area shopping centers through Christmas.