The Roanoke Rapids Police Department will have officers patrolling shopping areas Friday as stores open early to offer special Christmas shopping deals.
“We'll actually have six officers at Premier (Landing),” Captain Andy Jackson said. “Our main focus is to have a safe Black Friday.”
The police department has been using extra staff for the past six to seven years and thus far there have been no major incidents.
Stores have done much to eliminate those problems, Jackson said. “On Black Friday people are looking for door busters. With the economy the way it is people are looking for deals. Some are running specials before Black Friday. Several strategies have been rolled out to keep them safe. One is having promotions ahead of time.”
For those going out for early morning or midnight shopping runs, Jackson said it is important to carry a cell phone with you to call police or 911. “Once you pay for the merchandise always be alert to the surrounding environment. Don't leave packages in the car in plain sight where people can look in. Secure them in the trunk and don't accumulate too many goods.”
Jackson said for in town shopping it's a good idea to drop the items at your house and come back. “If you're out of town it's a good idea to load up and and change locations.”
Shoppers should never leave purses in the child seat of carts and then turn their backs. “Make sure you keep a personal log of debit and credit and account numbers.”
It is better to use credit cards than debit cards because credit cards can readily be canceled. “If you use debit cards it may take several days to recoup.”
While there have been reports across the country of fights breaking out over deals, Jackson said, “If you see trouble call police and move away. If you see people arguing about an item the best thing to do is walk away.”
Because many stores are opening while it is still dark, Jackson said, “Make sure you take a friend, travel in pairs. If you shop online for special deals use secure websites.”
There have been incidents where customers buy an item, turn their backs and it is gone. “Keeps your eyes on your items and your hands on your cart.”
