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As the holiday shopping season is upon us, please take time to ensure you have a safe and happy holiday season. As you find time to shop, please be mindful of the following safety tips:

  • Secure your vehicle. Ensure it is locked and your alarm is activated.
  • Secure any gifts and packages in the trunk area.
  • Be aware of your immediate surroundings.
  • Shop in pairs at the very least. Take a friend or family member shopping with you. There is something to be said for safety in numbers.
  • Avoid leaving any valuables inside your vehicle. If you absolutely must, avoid leaving them in plain sight.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with checks, credit, charge or debit cards. Carry cash and wallets in a front pocket to reduce your chances of having your pocket picked.
  • Attempt to park in well-lit areas or near security cameras.
  • Shop only from trusted websites with secure payment options. Watch for phishing scams and avoid clicking suspicious links.
  • Keep track of your packages with online tracking or get your packages delivered to pickup locations.

While these steps don't guarantee you will not become the victim of crime, they will hopefully reduce your chances of falling prey to a criminal.