We are into the holiday season and it is a time to celebrate with family and friends. It is also the time of year when petty thieves are very busy. There are two crimes that are occurring now and will increase into the holiday season — thefts from autos and theft of packages left outside.

Please do not keep valuables in your vehicle; and if you have to, put them out of sight in the trunk or cover them. Also, lock your car at all times.

Most of us are purchasing more and more online and all these items are delivered to our homes. Try to have them delivered when you are home, or have them delivered to a family member or friend who will be home, so they don’t sit outside for a long period of time.

I took a quick look at the results so far from the North Police District Community Survey. As of this writing we have 420 completed surveys, which is 140 more than last year. So far speeding is the number one problem in neighborhoods. Eighty-seven percent agree or strongly agree that their neighborhoods are safe places to live; and 97 percent agree or strongly agree that it is important for citizens to work with police and play an active role in preventing crime. I will share more results with you in the next edition of this newspaper.

Please drive the speed limit and slow down when the weather turns bad. Accidents are no fun to be in or to investigate.

I hope everybody has a safe and enjoyable holiday season.