Holiday Shopping Safety Tips

While many people have gift giving on their minds during the holiday season, safety is an important aspect of the holiday shopping season that is often overlooked. When shopping for gifts, many people become potential easy prey for robberies and carjackings. By following a few simple safety guidelines, shoppers can increase their chances of having a hassle-free holiday shopping season.

The most important safety aspect is parking. If you plan on staying at the mall after it is dark outside, try to get a parking space by the last store you will be shopping at, and make sure it is up-front and as close to your exiting door as possible. Some malls have police sub-stations inside of them with direct entrances to the sub-stations from the outside. Parking near one of these is also a good idea, as many thieves are deterred from the police presence. After you select a space, lock all of you doors and remove any valuables (cd’s, change, clothing, etc.) from sight. Try to locate landmarks nearby, and count how many spaces down you are located in that row.

As you walk throughout your shopping excursion, if you must carry a purse, hold on to it tightly on your shoulder, with one arm grasping the strap. Another smart idea to consider is to take out your credit cards that you will need throughout your shopping trip, before you head out and keep them in a pocket. That way should the worst happen, you will still have your credit cards, and will not have to worry about any stolen credit card transactions occurring. The safest route, however, would be to purchase some American Express Traveler’s Cheques from your bank and carry them with you. A person can not use them unless a valid ID is presented, so they are of no use to a thief. Should you not spend them during your shopping season, they can also be used to purchase groceries, gas for your automobile, and other items.

When walking in crowds, be sure to have a tight grip on your purse and other valuables.

Credit: cancer.gov

Copyright: geekphilosopher.com