Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

The holiday season is a time when people are busy and can become careless, vulnerable to theft and other holiday related crimes. Shopping during the holiday season can present unique dangers. Taking a few preventive measures can help keep your holiday season joyous and safe.

• Dress casually and comfortably
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member and park in well lit areas, even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
• Do not buy items from strangers who might be trying to fence shoplifted items.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Secure all packages in the trunk of your car. Do not leave packages in open sight.
• Shop at well on-line sites and ship gifts directly to out of town family and friends. Many stores offer shipping services also.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry
• Do not carry large purses or wallets.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
• Carry your identification card along with minimum necessary cash, checks and credit cards and expect to use.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible
• Keep cash in your front pocket
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.