Polk County Sheriff's Office

During this holiday season, I am reminded how blessed I am to work with such an outstanding group of people. The men and women of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office are dedicated, hardworking, caring, and committed to serving the citizens of our county. We at the Sheriff’s Office extend our sincerest thanks to the residents and businesses of Polk County. It’s through your support, assistance and willingness to work together with us that makes this office a success. Working together is key to making our community a safe and wonderful place to live, work and raise families.

We also say thank you to the men and women in all areas of public safety and emergency services. The sacrifices made and contributions to our community, saving lives and spending time away from your own families, are recognized and much appreciated. We recognize and show support to our service men and women serving around the world. May God be with them and their families, protect them and keep them safe from harm.

During this time many of you will be traveling on our busy roads to visit loved ones near and far. Please drive carefully and exercise patience allowing plenty of time to get to your destination safely. Let’s make this a safe and joyous holiday season, please take time to review the safety tips below. While we will give and receive gifts and enjoy time with family and friends, we must also remember to celebrate the birth of our savior Jesus Christ which is the GREATEST GIFT OF ALL.

God Bless

From our Family to Yours,

Sheriff Timothy Wright and Staff

Holiday Safety Tips

The holiday season is always a special time of year. It is also a time when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. We can never be too careful, too prepared or too aware. Please share this information with family, friends and neighbors. 

DRIVING

-Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.

-If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.

-Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

-Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.

-Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

-Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.

-Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

-Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.

-When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

-Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.

-Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.

AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINE (ATM)

-If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a mall, or well-lit location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.

-Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.

-Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.

SHOPPING

-Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

-Always carry your Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.

-Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

-Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

-Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.

-Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

-Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.

-Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.

-Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

CHILDREN

-Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.

-Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.

-Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

-Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.

-Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security.

-Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

AT HOME

-Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.

-When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

-Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer.

-Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

-Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.

IDENTIFICATION

-The goal of Identification is to deter property-related crime and to assist the Sheriff’s Office in its efforts to find and return stolen or lost property to its rightful owner. 

-Remember the following:

Mark gifts with your Driver’s License or Identification Card number.

Do not use your Social Security Number.

For items that cannot be marked with an engraver, photograph or videotape the items.

STRANGERS AT YOUR DOOR

-Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.

-It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved.

-Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not donate.