Friday, November 13, 2026
For Marco Islanders, the holiday season brings many of the same cherished traditions enjoyed by friends and family up north—just with a warmer, more tropical backdrop. From festive Christmas trees and beautifully decorated homes to gatherings with loved ones, it is a time for celebration and togetherness.
The men and women of the Marco Island Police Department share in the holiday spirit. However, like law enforcement agencies nationwide, they also recognize the need for heightened vigilance to help ensure a safe season for residents and visitors.
“Our residents play a vital role in helping us keep the community safe,” said Police Chief Tracy Frazzano. “We say it often because it’s true—the people we serve are our first line of defense against crime. We urge everyone to stay aware of their surroundings and take simple steps to protect themselves and their property.”
Captain Dave Ennis, who oversees the Patrol and Investigative Divisions, outlined several key safety reminders for the holiday season:
Home and Personal Safety
Always secure your home—lock all doors, sliders, and windows, whether you’re home or away.
Keep garage doors closed at all times, even when you’re inside the house.
Secure firearms with proper trigger locks and store them safely out of children’s reach.
Vehicle and Shopping Safety
Always lock your car, even in your driveway, and never leave your keys inside.
When shopping, store gifts and packages out of sight—preferably in the trunk—to avoid attracting thieves.
Never leave your car running unattended, even for a short time.
Never leave children or pets alone in a vehicle.
Financial and Identity Protection
Monitor your credit card transactions daily for suspicious activity, report unfamiliar charges immediately.
Keep a list of all credit cards and provider contact numbers in a secure location in case they are lost or stolen.
Safety for Children
Teach children to seek help from a store clerk or employee if they become separated from you in public.
Travel and Community Awareness
Be cautious of unsolicited door-to-door charity requests; if something feels suspicious, call 911.
If traveling for the holidays, place your mail and newspaper delivery on hold.
Notify the Police Department of your travel dates by calling the non-emergency line at 239-389-5050 (Monday–Friday during business hours) or by stopping by headquarters. Provide a reliable contact number in case of emergencies.
If attending holiday parties, consider using ride-share services. “We want everyone to enjoy themselves—but we also want everyone to stay safe on the roads,” said Ennis.
“These tips are useful year-round,” Captain Ennis added. “We encourage all residents to stay safe, stay aware, and enjoy a happy and secure holiday season.”
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