"Thieves are opportunists," said Overland Park Police Officer Mike Betten. "Just a quick glance at something else lets them steal your purse or presents."

So, what can you do to prevent a thief from taking off with your gifts this holiday season? Try these simple tips:

 - Do not leave your purse or bags unattended;
 - Shop in pairs or in groups; there is safety in numbers;
 - Stay in visible, public places;
 - If you have safety/security concerns while you are in a shopping area ask a security guard to take you to your car if one is available; and
 - Place all purchases in the trunk of your car rather than the front or back seat where they are visible to a passerby. Residents also have to be careful when leaving for the holidays. Creating the illusion that someone is home is the key to preventing home burglaries, Betten said.

"Residents should consider improving the physical security of their home - reinforce the doors, invest in good quality locks with reinforced strike plates - those items that are designed to keep a burglar out," said Betten, an expert in crime prevention/home security. "Once that is done, complement it with an electronic surveillance system or an alarm system."

Residents also should put their lights on timers, regardless of whether they're home or not. And, if you're still worried, consider scheduling a free home security survey with Officer Betten. He can be reached at 913/895-6334 or mike.betten@opkansas.org.

And whether you're out shopping, hosting a holiday party or toasting in the New Year with friends, be sure to designate a sober driver if you plan to travel.

Overland Park Police will be on the lookout for impaired drivers this holiday season, and while no DUI checkpoints are planned, saturation patrols will be out on the roads.

These patrols consist of a sergeant and four to five officers who spend their shift, from about 11 p.m. to 3 a.m., patrolling the streets of Overland Park looking specifically for impaired drivers.

"Designate a sober driver beforehand," said Sgt. Mike Imber with the OPPD Traffic Safety Unit. "If you feel you are intoxicated, most bars and eating establishments have programs where they'll call you a taxi."