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Home : News : News : Today's Stories
Safe shopping is smart shopping
By the Times Staff
11/25/2006
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Now that the Thanksgiving feast is history, the holiday shopping season is getting into full swing. As shoppers crowd the malls and stores, so, too, do the pickpockets, muggers and other assorted bad guys. To keep your holidays crime free, former New York Police Department deputy chief and General Manager of AlliedBarton Security Services Lawrence Loesch has come up with some common sense tips for a safer holiday shopping season.

- Strut while you shop. Thieves and predators look for easy marks such as people who are slouched over, preoccupied or are fumbling with packages. Walk confidently and be alert when you are in crowded malls and parking areas.

- Don’t "shop ’til you drop." Avoid holiday shopping burnout and don’t burden yourself with too many packages.

- Don’t flash large sums of money. Use credit cards whenever possible and never leave your credit card on a store counter. Also, avoid wearing expensive jewelry during holiday shopping excursions.

- Carry your handbag or purse close to your body with the clasp or flap secured and facing toward you. Never leave your purse on a store counter, on the floor in a restroom or in a dressing room.

- Shop with friends, whenever possible. There is safety in numbers.

- Report suspicious people or situations to mall security. Be aware of unusual movements or anyone who gets too close for comfort.

- Parking lots are targeted locations for the theft of valuables from vehicles. Avoid isolated parking lots and try to park near high pedestrian areas. Also, keep your vehicle doors locked, windows closed and packages hidden. Criminals walk through parking lots looking for easy targets.

- Avoid becoming an easy mark in the parking lot by being aware of noises and movements and having your keys in your hands, ready to open your vehicle. Be sure to look into the vehicle’s front and rear seat before entering it, and lock your vehicle as soon as you get in.

- Keep your guard up. If you have car trouble, remain in your car and use a cell phone to call for assistance, or return to the mall and notify security.


©DelcoTimes 2010

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