Full Notification

The holiday season is upon us, and the busiest shopping days of the year are approaching. While you are out & about hunting for gifts for loved ones or even grocery shopping for your holiday recipes, remember to keep safety in mind.

Here are some tips for preventing crime when you hit the stores:

• Never leave your valuables unattended (phone, purse, wallet, etc.).
• Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook.  An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information.
• Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package.  The same applies if you are using mass transit.
• Carry a purse with a zipper. Deter pickpockets by carrying your purse close to your body and keeping it zipped closed.
• If you carry a wallet, keep it in an inner coat pocket or front pants pocket.
• Do not buy more than you can carry.  Plan ahead by taking a friend with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.
• Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if possible, take them directly home.
• Once you get home, do not park your car outside your home with shopping bags left inside.

• If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other and select a central meeting place.
• Teach them to know they can ask mall personnel or store security employees if they need help.
• Keep a current photo of your child in your phone.