Advise residents to “Lock It, Hide It, Keep It” to prevent theft.

CANOGA PARK – As the holiday shopping season gets underway, Councilmember Bob Blumenfield was joined today by LAPD Topanga Division along with to inform residents and shoppers about steps they can take to keep themselves and their belongings safe this holiday season.

Over the course of the 2014 holiday shopping season there were 82 incidences of burglary and theft from motor vehicles in Topanga Division. Residents and shoppers can minimize their chances of becoming a victim by limiting the criminal’s opportunities.

“The holiday shopping season is a great economic generator that many small businesses look forward to, but it can also become a magnet for crime,” said Blumenfield. “The easiest way to avoid becoming a victim is to take the opportunity away from the criminal.”

LAPD’s Topanga Division includes some of the San Fernando Valley’s busiest shopping districts, including Warner Center and along Ventura Boulevard.

“The Los Angeles Police Department is prepared to ensure the safety of the residents and customers seeking to visit Los Angeles retail centers. Topanga Division officers will be in uniform, in plainclothes and working undercover to arrest and prosecute criminals looking to prey upon the shopping public,” said Captain Alan Hamilton.

The LAPD’s ongoing “Lock it, Hide it, Keep it” campaign was started in 2010 in the San Fernando Valley and has since been implemented Citywide and replicated by law enforcement agencies across the Country.

Safety tips for the holiday shopping season include:

• Park your vehicle in well-lit areas, preferably where there is a high volume of pedestrian traffic.
• Turn your wheels sharply to one side to prevent your vehicle from being towed by a thief.
• Lock your car even if you are going for a quick stop at a local convenience store or mini mall.
• Do not leave anything inside your car: place valuables in the trunk or your car or leave the items at home.
• When returning to your vehicle from making purchases, drive away and park at another location if you are planning on resuming shopping at the same shopping center. Do not leave your purchased items inside the car and return to the store. Thieves may be watching you and wanting your valuables.