DANVILLE – The holiday season can also mean more thefts, and area police urge everyone to use these shopping safety tips.

"This is the time of year that people tend to forget to be careful with their property and their own safety," said Danville Police Spokesman Larry Thomason. "The spirit of the season elevates our senses and, where any other time we would be more cautious, we tend to let our guard down."

Consider these tips:

Stay alert.

Stand tall and walk confidently.

Trust your instincts.

Lock up and leave lights on when leaving home.

Keep your purse close to your body or swap it for a "fanny pack".

Lock your packages in the car trunk.

Do not carry large sums of cash.

Do not count money in public.

Be cautious when approaching an ATM.

Avoid poorly lighted areas.

Have car keys out and in hand; lock car doors once inside the vehicle.