BENTON, Ark. — The holiday season is upon us and law enforcement officials say it is also one of the most important times to be aware of your surroundings.
Lt. Quinton Jackson with the Benton Police Department shared that during this time of the year, there are a few things that they see an increase in.
"We have a lot of breaking or entering calls, and because of this [you should not] leave those gifts or those valuables inside your vehicle," he added.
For many Arkansans, it's normal to pack carts and even cars during this time of the year but Jackson explained how that's the last thing you want to do when holiday shopping.
"Then either they don't lock it, or it's in enough site to where they break the window to get in to steal from you," he described.
That's why law enforcement officials say that staying alert and aware is the best thing to do— even when you're not shopping in stores.
The trend of buying and selling gifts online is more popular than ever and meeting up with people you don't know is a part of that trend. This is why Benton police want you to be smart when deciding on a meeting place.
"Whether it is for something they bought online and they wanted a safe place to exchange, or if they have there's a custody exchange of some sort, they'll meet right here," he said.
The safe exchange spot is by a tall blue sign that is located on the north side of the Benton Municipal Complex and the police department.
Jackson said that if you need an extra layer of protection during those holiday exchanges, that's an ideal place to go. It offers extra lighting, 24-hour surveillance and help is just feet away.
"Whenever you get that hair standing on the back of your neck where you don't think things are quite doing being on the up and up. This is a place that you can do it," he added.
No matter where you get your gifts, officials want you to remember three things:
"Be aware, be safe and put those valuables away," he said.