Suffolk police announced on Tuesday that they ramped up patrols in downtowns and at malls ahead of the holidays.

Police say they want to make sure both shoppers and drivers are safe while spending time at shopping at malls or busy downtown areas and are launching a new holiday safety initiative.

According to officials, they are using all their resources and units to stop the spike in property crimes. The department says it plans to redeploy its marine bureau, K-9, emergency service and other units out to patrol parking lots and downtown areas.

In addition, police are also adding extra DWI patrols throughout the county during the entire holiday season.

"We're making sure all hands from this police department are on deck to make sure we protect the residents during this time frame," said Commissioner Rodney Harrison.

Police are reminding shoppers to be alert while out, to never leave purses or wallets in shopping carts, to shop with a friend, to keep valuables out of sight and to always lock your car doors.

Nassau police also mentioned increased patrols.