It’s that time of year, when holiday shopping is on the agenda and afternoon shopping trips may extend well into the evening. Dark parking lots, cars parked far away from entrances, hands tied up carrying packages, all can contribute to a feeling of vulnerability when hunting down the perfect Christmas gifts. But keeping safe during the holidays is often a matter of common sense, according to local law enforcement officials.

“Don’t go alone. Be aware of what’s going on around you,” said Lt. William Chrismon, spokesman for the Washington Police Department. “Don’t leave packages and pocket books visible and make sure you lock your car.”

Chrismon said leaving property unprotected is often more temptation than some can resist.

“Things are tight all over,” Chrismon explained. “Budgets are tight. The increased demands on people to get other people something (for Christmas) means they may take advantage of opportunity. They’re pressured into making some bad choices.”

Lt. Karen Ball with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office stressed common sense during the holiday season.

“In big, shopping mall parking lots, park in a well-lit area,” Ball said. “If you’re in a place and there’s someone that feels suspicious, you can use your key fob, the panic button, to make the horn blow. A lot of times that will deter people from pursuing (a robbery).”

Ball also said the recent rash of vehicle break-ins is something to watch out for. While it may seem like petty crime, more often than not, thieves are after loose change because loose change adds up. Grocery store machines like CoinStar provide the opportunity for thieves to turn change into hard cash.

For those heading out of town, Ball said to secure all valuables: lock doors and windows, outbuildings, take keys out of lawn mower ignitions — anything that might make it more difficult for a thief to take off with property.

“If you’re going on vacation, make sure a neighbor is picking up mail and newspapers and don’t leave a trashcan sitting on the side of the road for a hundred years,” Ball advised.

Washington and county residents can take advantage of free house checks offered by both the sheriff’s office and Washington Police. By calling the appropriate agency, deputies or officers will check the homes of vacationing residents daily.

“A deputy or a police officer will physically get out of the car and make sure windows and doors are locked, make sure the house is secured and hasn’t been broken into,” Ball said.

And for those looking for the best deal they can find? Chrismon advises shoppers to be wary: “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”