NORTH CHARLESTON, SC - North Charleston Police Officers will visit local businesses today, handing out safety advisories and educating owners and employees on how to minimize their risks of falling victim to crime.

While the holiday season is supposed to be a time of joy and thanksgiving, it can also present unique dangers. The holiday season is a time when we can all become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime.

Make sure all outside entrances and inside security doors have deadbolt locks. If you use padlocks, they should be made of steel and kept locked at all times. Remember to remove serial numbers from your locks, to prevent unauthorized keys from being made.

All outside or security doors should be metal-lined and secured with metal security crossbars. Pin all exposed hinges to prevent removal.

Windows should have secure locks and burglar-resistant glass. Consider installing metal grates on all your windows except display windows.

Remove all expensive items from window displays at night and make sure you can see easily into your business after closing.

Light the inside and outside of your business, especially around doors, windows, skylights, or other entry points. Consider installing covers over exterior lights and power sources to deter tampering.

Check the parking lot for good lighting and unobstructed views.

Keep your cash register in plain view from the outside of your business, so it can be monitored by police during the day or at night. Leave it open and empty after closing.

Be sure your safe is fireproof and securely anchored. It should be kept in plain view. Leave it open when it's empty, use it to lock up valuables when you close. Remember to change the combination when an employee who has had access to it leaves your business.

If you, or someone you know, have any information regarding any crime, you are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers. You could earn a reward up to $1,000.

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 554-1111, toll free at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or online at www.5541111.com. Texters can send anonymous tips to CRIMES (274637), and mark the beginning of the message with "TIPCSL". Text STOP to 274637 to cancel. Text HELP to 274637 for help. Msg&Data Rates May Apply.