IT'S A TIME FOR CHEER AND EXTRA CAUTION.

Byline: CHARLIE DUSHECK Neighborhood Watch

Let us rejoice and love one another. The best to you and yours during this holiday season and throughout the new year.

First let me thank all of the neighbors, the businesses and other organizations that gave gifts of love, food, toys and of themselves to generously support the Los Angeles Police Department and its many special parties, food packages and gifts for the needy and children during this special season.

The full force of the holiday season is upon us: shopping, giving, parties, visiting and general times of good cheer. It is also the time when people are careless, forgetful and vulnerable to theft and other crimes. The bad guys know this and take advantage of you during this happy season. But here are some tips to prevent crimes:

When you are not at home, make sure the windows and doors are locked, especially the garage door and doors from the garage into the house.

Keep the curtains drawn, especially in rooms where you keep gifts. In fact, it is better to hide the gifts, not only from the children, but from the criminal. Display them on Christmas Eve or on your day of celebration.

Keep lights and a radio on. Automatic light timers and outside motion lights are recommended.

If you go away for a period of time, let your neighbors, watch captain and friends know. Give them contact numbers and have them pick up your paper and mail.

When shopping, carry only small amounts of cash in your purse or wallet, pay by check or credit card. Your checkbook and cards should be kept in a separate inside pocket.

Women should hold their purse in front, clutched in their hand if possible, with the strap across the body. Men should keep their wallet in a front pocket. A fanny pack is good but better if kept in front - a ``tummy pack.''

When in a restaurant, restroom or just resting on a bench, do not put your purse or gifts beside you or by your feet. It is too easy for a thief to snatch them and run.

For your car, close your windows and lock the doors, even if gone for just a few minutes.

Car and house keys should be kept in separate pockets. In that way, a thief cannot steal your car and go directly to your home. Lock your car registration in a safe place.

Do not leave gifts anywhere inside your car. Place them in your locked trunk. Also, do not put gifts in the trunk and return for additional shopping. Thieves watch and wait, then when you are gone, they force open your trunk and Christmas is not so merry. It is best, although inconvenient, to move your car to another location. Think prevention.

Do not overload yourself with packages while walking in the parking lot. It restricts your movement and makes it easy for a thief to hit and run.

Always walk confidently. Try not to look lost or unaware of your surroundings. Have your keys out and ready before you walk to your car. Get in the car and lock the doors as soon as possible.

All of the above may sound as if you should hibernate rather than enjoy the season. But you have now been made aware and can prevent a crime happening to you. Be cautious and watchful.

Again, let me wish you and yours a safe and enjoyable holiday season.