1. Be aware of your surroundings. In the rush to be the first to find holiday bargains, frenzied shoppers can increasingly grow tense creating a dangerous situation as a crowd grows. If you see a mob of frenzied shoppers quickly leave the area as no bargain is worth being trampled over.
2. Practice patience and avoid arguments. Expect long lines and lots of people. Remember, this is supposed to be a day of fun and savings so avoid disputes about who got to that special item first or who bumped into whom. Bumping into each other is to be expected on Black Friday.
3. Safety plan for children. If possible leave little ones at home, but if they must come with you have a plan in place in case you get separated. Teach them to look for someone who can help them such as law enforcement officers, store security or store personnel. Supervision is imperative as sexual predators use the hustle and bustle of shopping to distract or entice children.
4. Shop in numbers. Shopping with a friend, or two, or three not only makes for a fun outing, but also helps provide an extra friendly pair of eyes on your packages, purse, and person.
5. Deter thieves and pickpockets. Ladies, if you don’t leave your purse at home, you should carry it close to your body and limit what you have in it. If possible, only bring your ID, cash and/or one credit card with you. For those male shoppers, don’t carry your wallet in your back pocket instead carry it in your front pocket.
6. Out of sight = Out of mind. Clean out your car and don’t leave anything visible inside that might attract a thief. Lock all packages in your trunk and if you need to go back inside to continue shopping, move your car to another side of the shopping center.
7. Park and be safe. Anticipate minimal parking availability. Park under lighting if you plan to shop in the evening. Stop, look, listen and remain alert to your surroundings and have your keys readily available before you get to your vehicle.
To learn more about how to protect yourself, your home or your business call our Community Relations line at 258-3280. To report a suspicious person or vehicle, call 477-1000. In an emergency, dial 911.