Watch Out for These 6 Crimes That Skyrocket on Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving may be all about family, food and a few football games, but it’s also prime time for certain crimes to spike. With the excitement of family reunions, Black Friday sales, and the heavy holiday traffic, Thanksgiving weekend can take an unexpected turn. Here’s a look at the six most common Thanksgiving crimes - and clever tips to keep yourself out of harm’s way.

1. Vandalism

From egged cars to smashed pumpkins, Thanksgiving vandalism can run the gamut. Rowdy revelers (often young troublemakers) sometimes turn neighborhood decor into their personal playground. Expect graffiti, broken windows, and even stolen lawn ornaments.

How to Stay Safe:
- Brighten up your outdoor spaces with plenty of lights.
- Set up security cameras or video doorbells for a little extra peace of mind.
- If you’re traveling, ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on things.

2. Disorderly Conduct

Thanksgiving Eve, also known as “Blackout Wednesday,” tends to kick off the holiday weekend with one big night of drinking. The result? A spike in disorderly conduct cases, especially in public places. Think bar fights, obnoxious behavior, and a fair share of public disputes.

How to Stay Safe:
- Avoid hotspots known for rowdy crowds on Thanksgiving Eve.
- Keep your distance from any heated exchanges and stay aware of your surroundings.
- If things get tense, don’t wait - leave the scene before it escalates.

3. Theft

Black Friday deals can bring out the worst in people. With crowded stores and packages piling up on doorsteps, theft cases skyrocket. From sneaky shoplifters to porch pirates, everyone wants to score a steal - sometimes literally.

How to Stay Safe:
- Stay alert in crowded shopping areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Use secure delivery options or require a signature for holiday packages.
- Consider a video doorbell to catch anyone who might try to snag a delivery from your porch.

4. Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

Thanksgiving ranks as one of the most dangerous holidays for drinking and driving, with DUI incidents peaking from Blackout Wednesday through the weekend. With family gatherings and parties in full swing, too many people end up behind the wheel after a drink - or three.

How to Stay Safe:
- Designate a driver or book a rideshare before the night even begins.
- If you’re hosting, set out non-alcoholic options and encourage guests to stay overnight.
- Report reckless or impaired drivers to authorities; it could save a life.

5. Speeding and Traffic Violations

The Thanksgiving rush sees highways packed with travelers trying to get home or beat the lines for Black Friday deals. This hustle and bustle leads to speeding, running red lights, and distracted driving.

How to Stay Safe:
- Give yourself plenty of time to avoid rushing and risky driving.
- Set your phone out of reach to avoid texting temptations.
- Practice defensive driving to keep cool even when traffic heats up.

6. Domestic Disputes

Thanksgiving doesn’t always go as planned, and family conflicts can add fuel to the fire. When family tensions mix with alcohol, some gatherings tragically escalate to domestic violence incidents, putting loved ones at risk.

How to Stay Safe:
- Know your triggers and stay mindful if tensions start to rise.
- Plan a safe way to leave if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
- Be aware of resources that offer support for domestic violence situations.

Wrapping Up the Holiday

Thanksgiving should be about gratitude and good times, not crime scenes! Knowing what to watch for can help you keep Thanksgiving safe, fun, and full of good memories. So, stay alert, trust your instincts, and let gratitude guide you through the holiday!

References: 6 Common Crimes Committed on Thanksgiving Weekend | What are the most common holiday crimes? | Most Common Holiday Crimes