Holiday Safety Tips For Shoppers and Retail Stores
November 24, 2009
Tis the season to be jolly, but it is also the season to be wary
of burglars, thieves, and other holiday criminals. Nothing can
ruin the holiday spirit faster than becoming a victim of a
crime. The Mesa Police Department is advising shoppers who plan
to visit shopping centers and malls during the holiday shopping
season to take the following precautions when shopping:
- Don't leave valuables visible in your vehicle;
especially, newly purchased items.
- Newly purchased items should be stored in the trunk and,
if you are returning to the store, move your vehicle to
another location. If someone is watching the area, they will
think you are leaving. This may prevent your vehicle from
being targeted for the items stored in the trunk.
- Don't flash a lot of money as you are paying for
purchases. Make sure credit cards used are returned to you
and keep them in your sight at all times, even when the
cashier has them.
- Never carry more packages/bags than you can comfortably
carry to your vehicle. Be aware of your surroundings and
make eye contact with people as you pass by or approach.
Have your car keys out and ready as you arrive at your
vehicle.
- Never leave your purse or wallet unattended in a
shopping cart, even for one second. Always keep your hand on
the purse strap and put wallets into a pocket or waist pack.
- When shopping at a mall or large department store, be
aware of where you park your vehicle and remember where you
parked it.
- Remove the garage door opener from your vehicle while
shopping.
- When shopping at night, park under or near a light.
Security officers are available if you need assistance to
your vehicle, or if strangers are hanging around the parking
lot.
- Most importantly, keep vehicle doors and windows closed
and locked when not in use!
Mesa Police also encourage retailers to take precautions as well
by suggesting all credit card purchases are verified with photo
identification; receipts are checked at the door; require
identification for returned items; and cashiers open ALL boxes,
cartons and bags prior to purchase to ensure no other item was
placed inside.
Police also suggest additional security, asset protection and
loss prevention officers during the busy holiday season.
The men and women of the Mesa Police Department would like to
wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season.