Some sharp-eyed citizens quickly alerted police when they saw what they believed was someone attempting to break in to a car. They recognized the car and saw suspicious activity.

They called police right away. They gave a detailed description of the people around the car.

Just a few minutes later, police saw the perpetrators just a few blocks away and arrested them.

At this time of year, unfortunately, not everyone has your best interest and holiday tidings their heart. That’s why it is paramount to make sure your belongings are safe and secure and your car doors are locked, even if you only are going “to be just a second” in doing something.

Also, if you see something that might be out of line, don’t be afraid to say something to the authorities. 

It also is a good idea to make sure any packages you are receiving or expecting are kept out of harm’s way. The Better Business Bureau recommends the following:

• Take precautions to ensure a safe delivery: If you are having a valuable or fragile item delivered to your home, purchase shipping insurance. In addition, always get tracking numbers for your purchases and check the shipping progress periodically.

• Watch out for calls or emails about a missed delivery. Legitimate delivery services usually leave a  “missed delivery” notice on your door. If you receive a missed delivery notice, examine the form carefully to make sure it is authentic and only then follow their instructions. Keep track of what you’ve ordered so you have a better idea of what is coming and when.

• Request a signature: Chances are this feature may come with a price tag, but it may be worth the extra fee. Requesting a signature means that a delivery service won’t be able to drop a package on your doorstep unless someone is around to sign for it.

• Don’t leave packages sitting on your doorstep. Packages left sitting outside are particularly vulnerable to theft. To ensure safe delivery, have your package delivered to your workplace, or to a trusted friend or neighbor who will be home to accept delivery. Some delivery companies now have lockers where your packages can securely wait for you to pick them up using a one-time code to open the locker.  

• Open your delivery upon receipt to check for damage or signs of tampering. Contact the seller immediately if you believe something is wrong with the shipment or if it’s not what you ordered. Also, be sure to review the seller’s return policy for damaged or unwanted items. 

Hopefully, everyone is out to give each other Yuletide greetings. But for those who don’t have those in their hearts, keep on the lookout and make sure what they have in mind doesn’t harm you or others.