Officials have offered helpful tips to help take away the opportunity of shoppers becoming victims during this holiday season.
1) Do not leave purchased items visible in the car-leave them in the trunk.
2) While shopping in the evening hours may be less crowded, there are also additional potential risks involved. Park in areas of parking lots that have adequate lighting. Consider shopping with someone rather than going alone.
3) Make sure purses and wallets are secure on your person and you are aware of their location at all times.
4) Keep the amount of available cash you have at a minimum or separate it into different pockets or locations on or about your person. This way all of it is not lost if your purse or wallet is misplaced or stolen.
5) Credit cards offer convenience and security, however, keep track of all cards and keep receipts to compare to your monthly statement.
6) Remain aware of your surroundings at all times and move to and from your vehicle with confidence and “purpose”. Have keys ready beforegetting to your car so you do not have to search for them while standing near it.
7) Report suspicious people or activity to law enforcement immediately!
8) Most important is to reduce your own vulnerability and do what you can to minimize the possibility that you could be a victim of a crime or accidental loss.
