SAFETY NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH (NW) CORNER By Fay Wood, NW Chief Holiday Crime Prevention: Part Two The holiday season is fast approaching, and while it’s a time for joy and celebration, it’s also when criminals are most active. This is part two of our holiday crime prevention series, focusing on safety at home, in parking lots, and online. Get to Know Your Neighbors If you haven’t already, the holidays are the perfect time to connect with your neighbors—those next door, across the street, and even behind your home. Communities where neighbors look out for one another are safer and more aware of suspicious activity. A simple introduction could make a big difference. SPECIAL RESTAURANT ADVERTISING SECTION ALL STAR GRILL 2019 SR 60 E., Lake Wales, FL 33898 (833) 679-9689, allstargrillfl.com Hours: Sunday - Thursday 11 am - 10 pm Friday & Saturday 11 am - 12 pm Happy Hour 2 - 7 pm Two time champions for best wings! Dine in or take out. Full bar with TVs, NFL Ticket, pool tables, darts, games. CHERRY POCKET STEAK N SEAFOOD SHAK 3100 Canal Rd., Lake Wales FL 33898 (863) 439-2031, cherrypocket.com Hours: Sun-Thurs 11 am-9 pm, Fri & Sat 11 am-10 pm. We offer Indoor & Outdoor Seating, Pick-Up, & Delivery THE CROOKED BASS GRILL & TAVERN 1010 N. Scenic Hwy., Babson Park, FL 33827 (863) 589-5887, crookedbass.com Hours: Mon - Thurs 11:30 am-8 pm; Fri & Sat 11:30 am-9 pm; Sun 12-7 pm We serve delicious Seafood, Steaks (including Prime Rib), Burgers, Pizza, Salads, Chicken, Pork Chops, Pasta, Wings, AYCE Specials & a Full Liquor Bar. 18 Parking Lot Safety for Shoppers Always lock your vehicle and hide valuables in the trunk or a locked compartment. When shopping before sunrise or after dark, park in well-lit areas and keep your keys in hand. Stay alert and scan your surroundings before getting in or out of your car. Check the inside of your vehicle before entering, and if you notice signs of a break-in, call law enforcement immediately. Stay Alert While Shopping Crowded stores are prime hunting grounds for thieves and pickpockets. Keep your hands free by avoiding too many packages, and never leave belongings unattended. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large amounts of cash. Beware of “con artists” who may try to distract you. Record your credit card numbers in a secure place at home in case they are lost or stolen. Shop with Friends—There’s Safety in Numbers Plan shopping trips with friends or relatives whenever possible. Groups are less likely to be targeted, and you can help keep an eye out for each other. If shopping with children, keep them close and teach them what to do if separated. Instruct them to find a store clerk or security guard and ensure they know their full name and a contact number. Stay Safe While Shopping Online Online shopping offers convenience but also carries risks. Protect yourself by keeping your computer and security software up to date. Only shop on secure websites—look for “https” or a padlock symbol in the address bar. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for transactions. Before entering personal or payment information, review the website’s privacy policy and understand how your data will be used. Never send cash or use wire transfers for purchases. Save all receipts and correspondence, and monitor your credit card statements for unauthorized charges. By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your holidays safe and worry-free. Part three of our series will focus on crime prevention tips for those traveling during the holidays. Your Neighborhood Watch Team thanks you for helping keep Lake Ashton a safe and secure community!
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