Take safety precautions while holiday shopping
From Staff Reportsnews@newnan.com
Shopping during the holiday season can present unique dangers, so take a few prevention measures to keep things joyous.
The holiday season is a time when busy people can become careless and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime.
SAFE SHOPPING TIPS
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
• Dress casually and comfortably.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
• Always carry your driver's license or identification along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• Keep cash in your front pocket.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. Do not leave your purse or wallet in a shopping cart and walk away from the cart or turn your back on the cart.
• Keep your purse zipped up or snapped closed to prevent easy access.
• Take extra steps to protect your PIN number when entering for a purchase.
• When at an ATM shield your activity from view with your body as much as possible.
• If you see someone hanging around the ATM that you are about to use, go to another location.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, con-artists may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
