Sheriff Wes Tripp said in a statement that, “Holiday safety starts at home.Make sure that your pocketbook or wallet is organized before you leave. Make sure that your money and cards are in locations that you can go right to; as opposed to having to be distracted for several seconds looking for them. At the same time have them secure enough so as not to be grabbed.”
Don’t carry large amounts of cash. If you choose to, divide it and keep it in different pockets or locations. “Ensure that you have proper lighting on for your return trip and unloading areas. Don’t shop alone. Your chances of being a target are reduced when you have others with you. Also, coordinate ahead of time with family or neighbors to unload items upon returning home.”
When you are looking for a parking spot, take a minute to survey the lot. Look for well-lit areas and look for vehicles that have people sitting in them. Circle areas and use your side mirrors before you get out. “Have your keys in hand when you get out. You can get back in a car quicker with keys in your hand, you can also sound the car alarm. Take nothing for granted. Slow down enough to take precautions.”
Once in a store, be weary of having your pocket or purse picked. It is easy to be distracted looking for the right gift.
Make sure that people don’t have a vantage point when you submit PIN numbers or hear you discuss any account information with a cashier.
Make sure that you return debit or credit cards to secure spots. Take precautions while at ATMs as well.
“It is easy to be distracted when in a hurry,” the sheriff said. “When you return to your car, be aware of your surroundings and again, have the keys in your hand. Utilize the trunk for storage between stores, leaving less appealing items in any front or back seat area. Make sure the car is locked at all times.”
If you ever suspect that someone is following you to another store or home, make three right hand turns. If they are still following, call 911 and coordinate police intervention. Do not stop and confront or go home.
“When you return home from shopping you need to be aware of your surroundings at home. Remember that would-be thieves hide in dark areas, behind trees and bushes, and behind other vehicles. Scan the area before you get out and have someone there to help watch and unload. Don’t leave items unsecured while taking them in the house.”
The sheriff said although you may be in a hurry to start unpacking, don’t forget to lock the door behind you. “We would also encourage checking your banking activities. If you see irregularities after shopping all day, your information could have been compromised.
“If you see any unauthorized purchase, immediately cancel your card, call the store in which the transaction took place and report it, and notify Equifax.com and flag your information to avoid further abuse, and then contact the local police or sheriff’s office. Officers will likely tell you to contact the Federal Trade Commission to make a consumer complaint.”
Deputies will be patrolling throughout the county in anticipation of holiday traffic in shopping areas.
