As the calendar inches closer to the Christmas holiday, the Shelbyville Police Department urges residents to exercise caution when it comes to shopping and receiving packages. 

Lt. Mike Turner told Giant FM that as residents begin to shop, it is important to keep any items bought out of sight.

"If you are traveling from store to store, place items you purchased in your trunk, or if you have an SUV, place them in the back and cover them up. Shoppers need to be aware of their surroundings and always park in well lit areas and, when possible, shop with a friend of family member," Turner said. 

The  advice also extends homes, Turner said.

"If you have a tree placed in front of a window, don't place your wrapped gifts in front of a window. This invites those who may want to enter your home and steal your items. Once you return home and your Christmas is over, break down your boxes when placing them for trash pick up," Turner said.

Turner told Giant FM this is also the time of year that packages disappear off porches after delivery. 

"It is best to be home when deliveries are scheduled to be delivered. If you can’t be home, it helps to have a place out of public view to store items. Security cameras also provide an extra layer of protection for both your home and any packages you have delivered," Turner said.