By John Campanola
It’s that wonderful, glorious time of the year. The weather has finally turned cooler, the major storms are gone, and we Floridians can finally come out of our cocoons and enjoy all the reasons why we came to live here in the first place.
It’s also the time of the year when we begin to think about the upcoming holidays and that means holiday shopping. While I don’t want to dampen your enthusiasm or your shopping experience, I do want to offer a few safety tips when you go holiday shopping.
Criminals are fully aware that people will be out, with usually a significant amount of money and valuables on both their person and in their vehicles. Beware of purse snatchings, pickpockets and auto break-ins since thefts increase this time of the year.
The following holiday safety tips are offered to help make your holiday shopping a safe and happy experience.
Before you go shopping
- When driving keep your doors locked and windows rolled up. It is also a good idea to maintain at least half a tank of fuel and to keep your vehicle in good repair to avoid any potential breakdowns.
- According to Sergeant J.P. Roberts, “One of the things you want to do before you get into the mall is park somewhere where it is well-lit and safe. Park where there is a lot of other people.”
- Don’t leave valuables in your car, or at least don’t leave them in plain view. The trunk may be a good option.
- Roll up the windows, lock the vehicle, take the keys, and make certain you tell a friend or family member where you are going and what time you expect to be home. During hours of darkness, park and walk in lighted areas to the extent possible.
- If at all possible shop with friends or family. Criminals tend to look for someone who is alone.
While shopping
- Stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you.
- Deter pickpockets and purse-snatchers by not overburdening yourself with packages. It is important to be careful with pocketbooks and wallets. Carry your purse close to your body, not by the straps. Put a wallet in an inside or front pants pocket.
- Shop during the daytime, when possible.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Whenever possible, use credit cards or checks instead of cash.
- According to Janet Rodgers, author of the book, “Safe at all times: How to protect yourself and your family at home, at work, and while traveling,” don’t leave your bag packages unattended and be careful about leaving your credit cards out for any length of time. There are criminals trained in memorization of card numbers and names during those few seconds you’re at the cash register.
- Use caution when accessing a public restroom and try to avoid putting your pocketbook on hooks or on door handles.
- Should you have children with you when you go shopping you will need to keep a close eye on them. They should be told to go to a store clerk or security guard if they ever get separated from you. If they have difficulty in remembering their first and last name you should place a card in their pocket which they can show to authorities as needed.
After shopping
- When returning to your vehicle you should carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible. As you approach your auto, always scan the area, underneath the car, and inside before entering. Lock your doors immediately after entering the vehicle.
- Walk confidently and stay in will-lighted and well-traveled areas.
- In today’s world it seems that everyone has a cell phone. It is a bad idea to talk to someone while you are walking to your vehicle. It may make you feel safer but you are actually paying less attention to your surroundings if you are talking on the phone.
- When loading your shopping bags into your vehicle, place your pocketbook in the vehicle first, so that it’s not in the cart while you turn your back.
- Never hesitate to ask the store/mall security guard to escort you to your vehicle should you feel apprehensive about anything.
I know that this may seem like a lot of things to do. However, most of the items are common sense or things that we know we should do but never take the time to follow. An old adage may apply here: “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. Let’s enjoy this wonderful time of year and not allow any criminals to ruin it.
This article appeared in The Chatterbox of Lexington Lakes in December of 2009 and Viewpointe of Boca Pointe in November of 2004.