With the Christmas Shopping season in full swing, the Mason County Sheriff’s Office is providing a few valuable safety tips to help our citizens prevent being the victim of a crime during the Christmas holiday shopping season.  Each year we hear of our friends cars or homes being broken into or cars in shopping mall parking lots being broken into and Christmas gifts stolen.  If the following safety tips are followed your chances of being a crime victim are significantly reduced.

 Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
 Dress casually and comfortably.
 Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
 Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
 Always carry your driver's license or identification along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
 Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
 Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
 Keep cash in your front pocket.
 Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
 Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
 Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
 Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
 Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
 Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
 If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
 Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
 Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
 Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
 Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
 Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
 Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
 When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings.
 Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
 Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.

No question is too tough for these turkey talkers, and they are ready and excited to tackle any challenge you throw at them. Give them a call at 1-800-BUTTERBALL or send them your question hereany time throughout November and December.

Over the years, the Butterball^® Turkey Talk-Line experts have solved some puzzling turkey situations, like which pan to use, what to do when the turkey is on fire, and when to start roasting the turkey so it’s ready by halftime. Read the answers to their most frequently asked questions.

The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind drivers to use extra caution on Halloween night. Allow for extra stopping time as roadways are still susceptible to being slippery from the extended dry weather we just experienced. 

As you are aware, many children and their families will be in our residential neighborhoods going door to door. They will be wearing costumes that can restrict their vision and may be excited and less cautious while crossing streets.

We highly encourage parents to accompany their younger children at all times. All children should be in a group. Make sure their costumes or treat bags are highly visible and at least one in the group should be carrying a flashlight. Parents should inspect all treats that their children collect to ensure they have not been tampered with and are safe.  

The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office will have our Community Service Volunteers and Deputies patrolling neighborhoods as much as possible during the evening.

Please make sure to report any activity that endangers the safety of anyone out

enjoying Halloween activities.     

Your Sheriff’s Office wishes everyone a safe and happy Halloween!! 

Drop, Cover, and Hold On! If you are not near a desk or table, drop to the floor against the interior wall and protect your head and neck with your arms. Avoid exterior walls, windows, hanging objects, mirrors, tall furniture, large appliances, and kitchen cabinets with heavy objects or glass. Do NOT run outside!

Bill Gibbons at Galway Bay is planning his 8th annual Irish music festival to be held Oct 25 - 28, 2012. The venues will be Galway Bay Irish Pub & the Convention Center in Ocean Shores, along with the 8th Street Ale House in Hoquiam.

This is now the largest festival of its kind on the west coast with 25 bands coming from Washington, Oregon, California, Illinois, Canada & of course, Ireland. Notable bands performing this year are "Derek Warfield & the Young Wolftones" & "Crooked Jacks" out of Ireland; "Molly's Revenge" from California and "Town Pants" out of Vancouver, BC. You will also be entertained by the "Seattle Irish Dancers" & "Heavy Hammer" Drum & Pipe band.

Traditional Irish food, beers & whiskey's are highlighted during the festival and an appearance by the "Guinness Girls" is planned. Great fun or "Craic" as the Irish say can be had at the festival. 

Proceeds help the Catholic Community Services of Grays Harbor.

Contact Galway Bay Irish Pub for all Ticket sales at: 360-289-2300 and ShamRock the Coast!