We’ve got some safety tips for Black Friday and throughout the holiday shopping season:
- Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member. You are more likely to be a target if you are alone.
- Always park in lighted areas and avoid parking in remote locations when possible.
- Keep vehicle doors locked at all times, even while driving or if only out of the vehicle for a short time.
- Stay alert to your surroundings, especially while walking to and from your car. Talking or texting on your phone or digging in your purse for your keys while walking is a distraction and makes you an easy target.
- Do not carry a wallet or purse if possible. Purses/wallets are prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas. Also, never leave your purse in a shopping cart while you shop.
- Never leave any valuables in plain sight. Always place packages in the trunk if possible. If in an SUV, use a blanket to cover up your packages.
- Make an extra effort to make sure to lock doors and windows when you leave the house, even if only for a few minutes.
- Be careful what you post on social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.). Don’t alert others that you aren’t at home.
- Leave a radio or television and lights on so the house looks and sounds occupied. Also, turn on your porch lights after dark.
- Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home.
- Do not leave empty boxes from Christmas gifts in your front yard to be picked up. This just advertises what you have purchased.
- When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
