With the holiday season upon us, the Fishers Police Department has released a list of tips aimed at keeping your holiday season a festive one .

“We encourage residents and visitors to be careful, prepared, and aware of their surroundings,” say police officials.  “If you see something that does not look or feel right please call 911 immediately.”

Below is the full list of tips from Fishers Police:

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Driving

• Always wear your seatbelt.
• Never drink and drive.
• Put away cell phones or other devices that could cause a distraction
• Do not exceed the speed limit.
• Be courteous and patient with other drivers.
• Allow aggressive drivers to pass.
• Do not engage in verbal altercations. Calling out another driver’s bad behavior could lead to criminal physical violence.
• Call 911 to report impaired or dangerous driving
• If driving alone, notify a friend or family member of your route and approximate time of arrival.
• Pack a weather preparedness kit (blanket, flashlight, cell phone charger, non-perishable snacks, etc.)

Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

• If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located near a police station, mall, or well-lighted location.  Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
• Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
• Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

Shopping

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend and park in a well-lighted area.
• Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
• Dress casually and comfortably.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Keep cash in your front pocket.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas and public transportation locations.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
• When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
• If you are concerned about parking lot safety, ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.

Children

• Teach children to always stay close to you and to inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the bathroom.
• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
• Teach children their full name, address, and telephone number.

At Home

• Do the 9PM Routine. Lock it, Hide it, Keep it.
• Always double check doors and windows, ensuring they are locked, when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
• When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your mail and return garbage bins.
• Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.
• Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
• Contact the Fishers Police at (317) 595-3300 and/or fill out a Vacation Watch Form to notify us of your vacant home.
• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

• Residents should NEVER open the door to a stranger.
• Residents should announce that they are in the house and call 911 immediately.

• Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
• It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes when no charity is involved.
• Donate to a recognized charitable organization.

Immediately call 911 to report suspicious activity