Don't let the Grinch steal your Christmas

It's unfortunate, but there will always be people who believe they're entitled to something for nothing - and that something may be yours.

In the past, we've passed along tips from local law enforcement officials on how to keep our Christmas safe from the ultimate Grinch. And with the struggling economy, there could be even more thieves prowling our neighborhoods at night.

Most thefts and burglaries occur between December and February, according to Campbellsville Police Chief Dennis Benningfield. And because of that, we should all be a little more careful.

Thefts from vehicles are among the most common crimes this time of year. As people are shopping for Christmas gifts, they frequently stash gifts in their vehicles as they go from store to store.

It is best to keep all items out of view from would-be thieves, preferably in the trunk.

Law enforcement officials also say we need to be careful of both our pocketbooks and our purchases. Thieves will not only take money, but they'll also help themselves to the items we've already purchased.

But this time of year, it's also important to keep our homes safe as well.

A Christmas tree with piles of gaily-wrapped packages can be tempting to thieves. It would be a shame to cross that final name off the Christmas list, only to come home and find that someone has helped themselves to all of our gifts. Police say deadbolts are the best deterrent here.

In a close-knit community such as ours, it's good to know that we have neighbors who will keep watch as well as law enforcement officers who will make extra patrols.

But we have to make the extra effort ourselves to not give thieves the opportunity to play the Grinch.

Keep your blinds closed and your doors locked. Don't make thievery any easier than it already is.