Chatham County Police Department Issues Holiday Safety Reminders – Savannah Herald

Chatham County, GA (November 24, 2025) – The Chatham County Police Department is reminding everyone of steps they can take to make the holiday season a little safer.

While the holidays are meant to be a time of fun and celebration, it is important to remember that crooks and criminals often see it as a time to take advantage of people who have let their guard down during the festivities. No matter how busy you are, taking a few minutes to prevent a crime is well worth the effort.

Protect Your Vehicle

Entering auto cases are down substantially in our jurisdiction so far this year. But everyone should be mindful of the fact that there have been several years where we have seen spikes in this crime during the holidays.

·         Your vehicle should be locked at all times, and at all locations.

·         Store any items of value out of sight in the locked vehicle, preferably in the trunk. This is especially important in the case of firearms.

·         Never leave spare keys inside a vehicle.

·         Never leave your vehicle unattended while it is running – even for a minute.

Holiday Package Theft and Scams

We’ve seen a slight increase in the larceny of mail and packages in our jurisdiction this year. This type of crime can spike during the holidays, so everyone should be extra vigilant. 

Scams have cost victims upwards of four million dollars in our jurisdiction this year. There is no reason to think that scam artists will slow down their activities during the holidays.

·         If you’re not home most of the day, try to have packages delivered to your office, or have them delivered to a friend or relative who is more likely to be at home.

·         If you know a family member or neighbor will be home, ask them to pick up the packages as soon as they are delivered. 

·         Consider in-store pick up instead of home delivery.

·         Track your packages and sign up to receive alerts when they are delivered. If you can’t make it home quickly to bring the package inside, see if a neighbor or relative can get it for you.

·         Do not give any money or personal information to someone who calls you on the phone that you do not know. Even if they say they are from a legitimate business or agency, call information (4-1-1) for the number and ask to speak with someone who can help you.

·         Never purchase gift cards for someone who calls you over the phone, even if they say it is to help someone you know who is in trouble. This is a common scam that has cost some victims in our area tens of thousands of dollars.

·         Beware of social media requests for donations, offers to join gift-exchanges, and clubs. These can also be scams. 

·         If you want to give to charity, give to one you know and trust. Do not feel obligated to donate to everyone who asks – especially if you are not familiar with the charity or its mission. 

Shopping

·         Park as close to your destination as possible and in well-lit areas.

·         Always lock your car, even if you’re only running inside for a minute.

·         Hide shopping bags in your locked trunk.

·         Pay with a check or credit card so you don’t have to carry large amounts of cash.

·         Protect yourself from pickpockets and purse-snatchers by carrying your purse close to your body, instead of dangling by the straps. Make sure to keep your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.

·         Place your purse inside your car before loading packages or groceries.

·         Teach children to go to a security guard or store clerk if they are separated from you while shopping.

·         Only use Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) when necessary, and make sure you use one located inside a business or in very well-lit locations.

·         Don’t take out more cash than you need, and don’t throw away your receipt at the ATM (you don’t want someone to look at your receipt and know how much cash you’re carrying).

·         When using the ATM, make sure you shield they keypad when entering your PIN.

If You Are Traveling

·         Install automatic light timers.

·         Ask a trusted neighbor to watch your home.

·         Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.

·         Make sure all windows, doors, and vehicles are locked before you leave.

·         Don’t post on social media about your travels until you have returned home.

If You Are Out for the Evening

·         Turn on inside and outside lights and leave a TV on or music playing so it appears someone is at home.

·         Make sure all doors and windows are locked.

·         Don’t display gifts in a place where they can be seen from the outside. Close your blinds and curtains, if necessary.

Media Contact:

Betsy Nolen

Public Information Officer

Chatham County Police Department

Cell: (912) 675-2949