During the holiday season, crime rates tend to up. This is due, in part, to shoppers carrying more cash and credit cards with them while shopping, -shopping later than usual and the relaxed, easy-going attitude that comes with this time of year. We call it good cheer. Criminals call it complacency.
By remaining aware of holiday season risks you can better protect yourself. We will be sending Holiday Season Crime Prevention tips frequently and you are encouraged to take them into consideration for the protection of you and your family.
WALKING TO/FROM THE STORE
- Ladies: If you carry a purse, carry it close to the body, preferably in front. If the purse has a clasp, cover it with your hand. Don’t wrap the strap of the purse around your wrist. Never leave a purse unattended.
- No purse: Carry as little cash as possible and carry credit cards in a concealed coat or chest pocket.
- If you carry packages and a purse, put the purse between your body and the packages.
- Avoid carrying a wallet in a back pocket or side pocket.
- Consider putting a loud whistle or alarm on your keychain so you can use it immediately to draw attention to yourself. Robbers do not want attention.
- When you walk, carry yourself with CONFIDENCE. Keep your head on a swivel, looking around at possible suspects trying to size you up. *****Don’t have your head down texting or dialing a phone number! Be aware of your surroundings!
- BE WARY of strangers who attempts to start meaningless or odd conversations!!!! This includes people asking for money, someone giving you a sob story about needing money for food or gas. These people usually work in PAIRS. Even though you are talking to a seemingly harmless person, the 2nd suspect might be coming up from behind you. Walk quickly to the store entrance and call us to investigate.