CPD offers safe shopping tips

With the holiday shopping season around the corner comes the desire to go to the stores and malls and spend money; lots of money.

After all, it is the holiday season, and we all like to buy gifts for others and we all like to feel safe when we are shopping. We also can become careless and vulnerable to crime during this season because we are excited, in a hurry and generally non-focused on our surroundings.

Here are just a few safe-shopping tips:

Using credit or debit cards is much safer than carrying a lot of cash. If you carry cash never count it where others can see. Travelers Checks are even safer because if they are lost or stolen they can be replaced;

Write "Require photo ID" on your credit and debit cards;

Avoid carrying a wallet or purse but if you do keep purses and wallets close to your body. Never lay then down while conducting your purchase transaction. If someone grabs your purse, let it go. Your safety is more important than money;

Only wear minimal jewelry while shopping;

Always keep your vehicle and valuables secure. Roll up windows, lock vehicle and keep packages and valuables hidden in the trunk;

Alert store, security personnel or police if you see anything suspicious;

When you return to your vehicle have your keys ready, store packages in the concealed area and leave as soon as you are seated in the vehicle. Do not use your remote control to find your car and only use it when you are close and have looked around for anything suspicious. Take a quick look inside your vehicle before entering;

If someone approaches your vehicle while you are near it get in and lock the doors. If they loiter drive away from the area or start honking your horn;

After storing your packages move your vehicle to another distant parking space;

Always present an alert image of yourself and be aware of your surroundings;

If you must use an ATM insure the location is well lighted and in a populated area. Conceal the entry of your PIN to prevent others from observing;

Teach your children to go to a store clerk, security guard or police officer if they are separated from you and insure those children in shopping carts are properly restrained and secure;

And always have an accessible cell phone for quick use with you if possible, let others know where you are and when you plan to return and remember there is safety in numbers so always shop with others you know.

(The Conway Police Department can be reached at 450-6120 to report criminal suspicious activity. For emergencies, dial 9-1-1. Staff writer Joe Lamb can be reached at 505-1238.)