Sunday, January 12, 2025
As the holiday season is now in full swing, the Nassau County Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Patrick Ryder and County Executive Bruce Blakeman, are enhancing safety measures across the county to protect residents.
The police department has intensified patrols in shopping malls and commercial areas, deploying both marked and plainclothes officers. Specialized units such as the Mounted Unit, Bureau of Special Operations, K-9, Emergency Services, and POP officers will support these efforts. Additional patrols will be stationed at major malls during peak hours to ensure a safe shopping environment.
Police will also enforce vehicle and traffic laws, targeting illegal parking in fire lanes, failure to use child safety seats, and texting or driving while intoxicated. Handicapped parking violations will be strictly monitored, with spaces reserved only for vehicles displaying visible permits.
Residents are encouraged to take precautions to ensure their safety both at home and while shopping. Before leaving home, residents should secure their homes residence by engaging alarms and leaving lights on in frequently used rooms to give the appearance of occupancy. Residents are reminded to shop carefully by knowing their destination and route in advance. Shopping with a friend is advised for added safety, and it is helpful to inform someone of your plans, including your route and expected return time. Valuable items should be stored securely out of sight in closets or safes.
When parking, drivers should choose well-lit areas and ensure that all keys, wallets, and other valuables are removed from plain view. Items like laptops, packages, and radar detectors should be secured in the trunk or glove compartment. Lock all doors and note your vehicle’s location for a smoother return. Avoid parking near vans or vehicles with concealed cargo areas. To minimize risk, carry only essential items and be vigilant for suspicious activity. Do not exit your car unless you feel safe, and if necessary, drive away.
While shopping, keep money and credit cards in your front pocket and carry only what is necessary. Be cautious at ATMs and cash registers to avoid exposing credit or debit card information, as thieves may use cell phones to capture card details. Stay alert for distractions that could be staged to facilitate theft, as these are common during the holiday season.
When returning to a car, shoppers should avoid carrying an armful of packages. Drivers should have their car key ready to unlock their door, and check for suspicious individuals near your vehicle and in the parking lot before exiting the store. If you notice loiterers nearby, do not approach your car. Consider carrying a whistle or other audible device, and if you feel threatened, use it. Once inside the car, drives should lock their doors and honk the horn to attract attention if necessary. Always inspect your car's interior and surroundings before entering. If you plan to return to the store, ensure packages are not left in plain view. Secure them in the trunk or cover them with a blanket or jacket.
The police department urged residents to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, and wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday season. For additional safety concerns, call (516) 573-7138.
