On behalf of all my colleagues, here are a few holiday safety reminders from your friends in the department of public safety.

1. Think before you leave your home. Practice "door-to-door" habits: Be alert and quickly go from your home door to your car door and from your car door in the parking lot to your work or mall door.

2. Don't carry a purse. It just makes you a target for purse snatching. Not carrying a purse also gives you freedom to move easier through crowds. Dress down, and don't overload yourself with packages. Keep one hand free, and have your car keys ready as you approach your car.

3. ATMs are convenient for criminals, too. Be alert when using an ATM! Use drive-up ATMs whenever possible and leave your car in "drive," not "park." After your transaction, recover your card and drive away promptly.

4. Criminals do their Christmas shopping in mall parking lots. Keep all valuables out of sight. Conceal them so no one steals them. Use caution when putting items in your trunk.

5. Whenever possible, back your car into a parking spot. This makes leaving the parking lot quicker and safer. And always remember to look into the backseat before entering your vehicle.

6. Remember where you park in mall lots. Make a mental note of what mall entrance door you enter. Walk briskly and alertly to and from your car.

7. Talk to your children about safety habits they should use when they are home alone. Teach them telephone safety, and give information on how to contact parents and trusted neighbors. Tell children that it is OK to call the police to investigate any suspicious activity.

8. Be attentive when traveling in your car. Always lock your car doors. Get a cellular phone. Fuel up your car at a well-lit, familiar gas station. Look around and pay attention when stopped at an intersection. If you're ever followed, go to a police station or busy store.

9. Extension cords, live Christmas trees and fireplaces cause accidental home fires. Safe homes always have fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Safe families have a fire evacuation plan and hold fire drills once or twice a year.

10. Be observant and stay alert. Trust your instincts. If you feel or think something is wrong, it may well be. Return to the mall, store or office and call for help. Saint Louis University Public Safety or mall security will escort you to your car.

Jack Titone is director of the University's department of public safety.

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