As the holiday shopping season ramps up, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) is reminding residents to take simple precautions to avoid becoming victims of theft.

Sheriff Austin Garrett urges shoppers to keep purchased items out of sight if they must be left in a vehicle — ideally stored in the trunk or covered to avoid drawing attention.

He says the most important safety measure is situational awareness: staying alert, paying attention to your surroundings, and remembering where you parked.

Sheriff Garrett also notes that deputies will increase patrols around retail areas throughout the county this Christmas season to help keep shoppers safe.

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