Local briefs

The Brainerd Police Department made the following holiday season safety suggestions:

-- With the onset of winter driving conditions, every driver should take additional time in getting to their destinations; be alert and defensive drivers, especially near intersections, around schools and in parking lots; and clean vehicle windows of ice and snow.

-- When exiting a vehicle, be sure children do not run into traffic.

-- Shoppers are reminded not to leave receipts with purchases and to not place packages in plain view within vehicles.

-- Shoppers shouldn't leave purses unattended in shopping carts.

-- Cell phones should be used with discretion and never left in plain view within vehicles.

-- With increased mail volumes, it is recommended people not leave mail unattended for any length of time. Mail is a theft target, especially at this time of year.

-- Check forgery is a crime area merchants can prevent. Merchants are encouraged to require proper identification when taking checks or credit cards to discourage fraudulent transactions.