Gresham Police Share Holiday Safety Tips -12/02/24

For Immediate Release 

Holiday lights, celebrations, and festive events are filling Gresham with community spirit. But December also brings shorter days and more distractions, which can increase the risk of theft and other crimes. 

“The holidays are a time for joy, but they can also create opportunities for crime,” says Gresham Police Chief Travis Gullberg. “By staying alert and following a few simple safety tips, we can all help make the season safer and more enjoyable.” 

The Gresham Police Department wants everyone to have a safe and peaceful holiday season. Here are some simple tips to keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Car break-in and theft prevention: 

• Never leave your unattended car running. 
• Do not leave valuables where they can be seen; lock them in the trunk or take them with you. (Including: purses, shopping bags, electronic devices, and firearms). 
• Close and lock the windows and doors.  
• Park in a well-lit area.  
• Find your keys before heading to your car.  
• Use an anti-theft device if possible. 

Package theft prevention:  

• Request signature delivery.  
• Deliver packages to a lockbox, office, or trusted neighbor.  
• Consider installing a camera and flood light on your front porch.  

Shopping safety: 

• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings.  
• If shopping at night, take extra caution.   
• Use a credit card if possible.  
• If you must use cash, keep it in the front or inside pocket and do not carry large amounts.  

Going out of town safety: 

• Do not announce your trip on social media; post pictures after you return. 
• Make sure all your doors and windows are closed and locked.  
• Use a “mail hold” or ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and package delivery. 
• Set indoor and outdoor lights on an automatic timer.  
• Avoid driving if you are fatigued.  

Celebrate responsibly: 

• It can be tough to speak up, but your courage could save a life. Don’t let friends and family drink and drive.  
• Arrange for alternative transportation or a designated driver ahead of time. 
• Only time will eliminate alcohol from your body. 

 Protect your personal information: 

• Avoid giving personal information over the phone, via email, or social media.  
• Be suspicious of texts or emails requiring immediate action.
• Be suspicious of requests to transfer money.
• Contact your bank directly if you are concerned about fraud.  
• Monitor your transaction activity.  
• Safeguard your passwords and utilize multifactor authentication.  
• Verify requests for donations. Use sites like Charity Navigator. 

 Take precautions while shopping online: 

• Be sure you are visiting a legitimate website. 
• Verify site security. 
• Avoid shopping on public Wi-Fi. 
• Set account alerts to monitor transactions. 

Above all, the Gresham Police Department is encouraging the community to be prepared and stay alert. If a crime does occur, please report it by calling 503-823-3333 or visiting GreshamOregon.gov/File-A-Police-Report-Online/. 

 About Gresham: 

Gresham is a welcoming community of hard-working people where tradition meets opportunity in Oregon's fourth largest city. Gresham’s residents care deeply about our roots and are committed to building a vibrant future. Today, Gresham is a dynamic, innovative, and rapidly growing city with a desire to thrive. To learn more, visit www.GreshamOregon.gov or visit us on X at @CityofGresham.