As Black Friday approaches, shoppers are reminded to be careful, prepared and alert.
Remember:
• When shopping, travel with a group or in pairs, and schedule shopping trips during the day.
• Stay alert, especially when carrying packages or walking on a parking lot or in a garage.
• Avoid carrying too many packages, and leave one hand free to access keys or a phone quickly.
• Park in a well-lit parking space, and select an area where there are other cars and foot traffic.
• Don’t leave cell phones, purses or other valuables in a parked car – especially in plain view.
• When loading packages into the car, use the trunk instead of the back seat.
• Beware of strangers approaching you unsolicited. Walk in another direction if you feel uncomfortable.
• When the holidays are over, don’t put boxes for electronics or valuables in plain view on recycling day, break them down first.