LAPD Essentials

This IS NOT the official website of the Los Angeles Police Department. This website is only intended to help non-English speaking immigrants better understand the services provided by the LAPD.

Holiday Safety Advice

Here are some safety tips for the holiday season, with help from the LAPD Crime Prevention Section. Holidays are special, but they can also be a time when people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other crimes. Stay cautious, prepared, and aware. Share this advice with family, friends, and neighbors. Have a safe, happy, and peaceful holiday season.

Driving

Don't drive alone or at night if possible.
Lock all car doors and close windows when in or out of your car. Use an alarm or anti-theft device.
If shopping at night, park in a well-lit area.
Don't park next to vans, trucks with campers, or tinted-window cars.
Park close to your destination and remember where you parked.
Never leave your car running unattended or with children inside.
Don't leave packages or valuables in plain sight in your car to avoid tempting thieves. Lock them in the trunk or hide them.
Find your keys before going to your car.
Hold onto your purse, handbag, and parcels securely. Don't put them down or on your car to open the door.
Be aware of your surroundings when approaching or leaving your vehicle.
If suspicious people are nearby, don't approach your car alone.
Ask for a security escort from mall or store personnel when leaving a shopping location.

ATM Use

Choose ATMs in well-lit, secure locations like police stations or malls. Only withdraw the cash you need.
Protect your PIN by covering the ATM keypad from anyone near you.
Don't throw away ATM receipts at the ATM.

Shopping

Shop during daylight hours if possible. If shopping at night, bring a friend or family member.
Dress casually and comfortably.
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
Try not to carry a purse or wallet if possible.
Carry your ID, necessary cash, checks, and credit cards you plan to use.
Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings, even if you're in a hurry.
Don't carry a lot of cash.
Use checks or credit cards for purchases when possible.
Keep cash in your front pocket.
Report lost, stolen, or misused credit cards immediately.
Keep a record of your credit card numbers at home.
Be extra cautious with wallets and purses in crowded areas and public transportation.
Don't carry too many packages at once. Keep visibility clear and have freedom to move.
Be wary of strangers approaching you. Con artists may try to distract you to steal your money or belongings.

Children

Leave small children with a trusted babysitter if possible.
Teach children to ask store clerks for help if separated from you.
Keep children close while shopping.
Don't let children go to the restroom or car alone. Never leave them alone in the car.
Teach children their full name, address, phone number, and how to report strangers bothering them.

Home

Always lock doors and windows when leaving home, even briefly.
Have someone watch your house and collect mail and newspapers when away for a long time.
Use automatic timers for indoor and outdoor lights.
Leave a radio or TV on so your home seems occupied.
Don't display holiday gifts where they're visible through windows or doors.
Keep Christmas trees and displays clear of doors and walkways inside your home.
Secure your Christmas tree with a sturdy base to prevent tipping over on people or pets.
Check Christmas tree lights for damaged or frayed wiring to prevent fires.
Keep your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to maintain its freshness.
Never burn wrapping paper in the fireplace.

Operation Identification

This program aims to deter property crime and help the LAPD return lost or stolen items. Remember to:

Mark gifts with your California Driver License or ID number.
Don't use your Social Security Number.
Photograph or record items that can't be engraved.

Door-to-Door Strangers

Be cautious of criminals posing as gift-delivering couriers.
Some criminals may ask for fake charity donations door-to-door during the holiday season.
Check their ID and how donations will be used. If unsure, don't donate.
Give to recognized charities instead.