Myrtle Beach police use video to help the public avoid getting ‘Grinched’

The Myrtle Beach Police Department rolled out its first holiday shopping safety video, “Don’t Get Grinched!,” last month to remind the public of important safety tips.

The video features members of the police department and was filmed by Myrtle Beach Police officer Mike Dame. The nearly three-minute clip uses a Grinch to illustrate some of the pitfalls that could be lurking for shoppers who are unaware of their environments.

Tips encourage shoppers to have their keys in hand when approaching their vehicles and to not be overburdened with purchases when leaving a store. Other advice for residents includes a note to avoid advertising being away from home on social media or leaving boxes that housed expensive items on the curb.

The clip ends with the Grinch in handcuffs and a final message from the police: “We can handle the Grinch. Help us out by being safety conscious. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.”

This story was originally published December 11, 2015 at 12:07 AM with the headline "Myrtle Beach police use video to help the public avoid getting ‘Grinched’."