LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
The holiday season is here. It's that time when shoppers frequent overcrowded malls and stores to purchase holiday gifts for friends and relatives. Before you go shopping, remember to give some thought to protecting yourself and family from holiday crime.
Throughout the years, statistics have shown an increase in theft around the holidays.
Although military members and their families enjoy a relatively safe environment when frequenting military commissaries and exchanges, it's always smart to think safety when shopping.
Consider the following tips when shopping:
· Park in well-lighted areas, preferably within close distance to the store or mall where shopping is intended.
· Never carry large amounts of cash.
· Use checkbooks, credit or debit cards to make the majority of holiday purchases.
· Never carry ATM or other debit cards with personal identification numbers written down.
· If carrying a purse, carry it on the inside arm, on the side farthest from the street.
· Let someone know where you're shopping and your expected return time. Shopping with a friend can be a relaxing and fun way to increase personal safety.
· Avoid known trouble spots. Sometimes it's better to avoid after-work shopping trips until the weekend when you can shop in daylight.
· If using valet parking, separate vehicle keys from home and business keys; remove and take the electronic garage door opener with you (the opener' s code can be easily copied and the registration has the home address).
· If you think you're being followed while walking, find a security guard or store manager and advise him or her of your concerns; use a cell phone to notify police. Many stores and shopping malls employ off-duty police officers during the holidays to increase patron safety.
· If you suspect that you're being followed while driving, proceed to the local police station or to a well-lighted, populated area and use a mobile telephone to call police.
· If a robber accosts you, remain calm and give up the property the robber wants. Nothing you're carrying is worth risking your life.
· Consider shopping on military installations whenever possible. Commissaries carry everything for planning holiday meals and snacks. The exchanges have a wealth of products suitable as gifts for the family.