While Clark County residents make trips to visit family for the Thanksgiving holiday, the Arkadelphia Police Department reminds them to be aware that not everyone celebrates by visiting family, but by stealing property.

While no crime can be completely prevented, Sgt. Roy Bethell, criminal investigator, said there are things that can be done to deter it. He said the police department sees “a lot of thefts and different types of scams during the holidays.”

Bethell urges that residents to take precautions so they can come back to the same home they left. First, “It’s good to leave a porch light on, and close your blinds and curtains so your property can’t be seen as easily.” Second, Bethell said people should let a reliable neighbor know they will be gone “so they can watch your house nad be an other eye that can be kept on your property.”

In addition to these precautions, Bethell said it is always a good idea — no matter what time of year it is — to let police know to pay special attention to your house. Just leave your name, phone number and address with the police department, along with any other necessary details about your property.

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, when most people do their Christmas shopping, is also a heyday for criminals, Bethell said. This is a time when police hear more reports of car thefts, pick pockets and other scams. “We see a lot of thefts and different types of scams during the holidays.”

There is more of an opportunity for crimes at shopping outlets because there are more cars. “They seem to target those areas,” Bethell said. To keep your property from being stolen from your vehicle, Bethell advised leaving all gifts and groceries out of sight.

“Put your stuff in the trunk,” he said. “Hide it — don’t leave it in plain view.” Criminals do not care if your door is locked or not. “They’ll get what they can see, whatever it takes — even if it means knocking out your window.” For those in-and-out shopping trips, you still should not let your guard down, he said. Always take cell phones, wallets and purses with you.

Some scam artists will try to perform what is called a pigeon drop. “It’s a scam where someone will approach you in a heavily populated area like a shopping outlet and tell you they found some money,” he said. “They will want you to share this money with you. Usually what they will do is promise a portion of the money to you if you are willing to submit some of your own money to show good faith. Then the scam artist will run away with your money.”

Other scams include phone, e-mail and postal mail scams. If it sounds too good to be true, then it is most likely a scam. Phone calls that alert a large sum of money or a winning lottery ticket, as well as letters or e-mails that promise a free dream getaway or a free car, are among the most popular scams.

Bethell urges anyone who senses a scam either in person or by phone or mail should call 246-4545 or the Clark County Sheriff’s Office at 246-2222. People can also call either number to request extra patrol during the holidays.

“We just want to keep people and their property safe during the holidays,” Bethell said.