Law Enforcement: Cold Weather Typically Curbs Crime

Shoppers like Kati Beth Lewis dash into stores to avoid what could be waiting around the corner.

"I think you hear about crime being more prevalent during the holidays," she said.

So when they head out of the stores, safety isn't something they pack away with their parcels.

"I was looking around the perimeter," said Pat Long. "I want to always know where I am and who's around."

Most folks seem to agree, the holidays mean big business for bad guys.

"They don't care -- they know we're coming they are coming as well,"  Dandrea Jones said. "I'm watching constantly, looking behind me to make sure it's clear."

"I've heard more about crime, but maybe because I'm paying more attention," said Russell Burks.

According to Lt. Carl Minden, with the Pulaski County Sheriff's Office, the winter months usually curb the number of crimes his office sees overall.

"Crimes do sort of drop in winter just because less people are out," he said.

But the holidays do offer a certain set of opportunities. Bags in back seats advertise items to steal in store parking lots.

"Put it in your trunk do not put anything in the backseat," said Jones of her protection tactic.

"If we have anything we hide it under the seat," Burks agreed. "We keep anything valuable out of sight. We're vigilant about that."

Open blinds and Christmas trees with presents packed underneath, can also be a billboard to a crook that your home is a good one to hit.

"They'll take advantage of that," Minden said. "We see more home burglaries because there are more items in the home the criminals can see. They don't even have to unhook the expensive items off the wall, because a lot of times they're neatly wrapped under the tree."

But the cold, Minden said, can also cut down on certain crimes.

"Because criminals get cold too they aren't going out in 25 degrees to break into cars," he said. "Sure, there are going to be some who continue to do it. But a lot of times it's about opportunity. You make your car or home a difficult target, they'll move on to the next easier one."

When it comes to making it tough for crooks as a shopper-- being aware of your surroundings makes you more secure. Have your keys ready as you head to the car, take note of strangers lurking around your ride, and return to the store to alert security if you feel unsafe.

To keep you covered at home law enforcement reminds people to shut the blinds to keep snooping crooks from seeing what you have inside, lock all of your doors, and set the alarm system if you have one.