We are now less than one week away from Christmas, which means several people will be out finishing their holiday shopping for loved ones.

One thing that could ruin someone’s holiday season is having a package or gift taken from them.  Jefferson Police Chief Dave Morlan would like to remind everyone that if you’re going to be out shopping to make sure that you keep your vehicle locked up at all times.

“If they’re out traveling or doing any shopping and they have any packages that they’ve purchased, they should put those in the trunk or in the rear of the vehicle where they are out of sight and keep them covered up.  It’s because if they are out of sight, they are less likely to be broken into and have that stuff taken.”

Another good idea, Chief Morlan adds, is that know what day a package will be delivered to your house so you can take that package inside.  Lately, the police department has seen an increase in package thefts and if you’re present to receive the package and put it somewhere safe, the less likely it will be stolen.