Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office gives advice on how not to be a victim this holiday

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office sent out an advisory Saturday offering tips to locals and tourists and how not to be a victim of crime during the Fourth of July weekend.

The advisory also asks that the community be vigilant during the holidy weekend and to report any suspicious activity to local authorities.

Lock vehicles

▪  Lock your vehicle and set your alarm. Opportunistic thieves will pass on a car that is locked in favor of one that is not, the release states. It says, The vast majority of vehicle break-ins reported to law enforcement did not involve forcible entry.

▪  Do not leave valuables in vehicles, the release says. If valuables must be left in a vehicle, they should be secured in a trunk or locked compartment.

Traveling

▪  Prior to traveling, make sure the doors and windows of home are locked and that alarm systems are functioning, the release says.

▪  Advise a trusted neighbor or family member of any travel plans and dates. Ask them to pick up your mail and newspaper and to walk the perimeter of the house daily to ensure doors and windows are secure, the release states. Provide them with a way to contact you in the event of an emergency or incident at the home.

▪  Leave a few lights on inside and outside of the house, the release states. Leaving the lights on will give the appearance someone is home. Leaving a vehicle in your driveway will also serve as a deterrent.

Shopping

▪  Carry only small amounts of cash and avoid using an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at night, the release states.

▪  Verify online stores are reputable and have secure payment options before using a credit card online.

▪  Monitor your bank account activity regularly to catch any fraudulent activity early on and minimize the damage.

This story was originally published July 1, 2017 at 3:35 PM with the headline "Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office gives advice on how not to be a victim this holiday."