TIPS TO HELP KEEP YOU SAFE WHILE SHOPPING

Want to keep yourself safe while shopping? Here's some tips that I put together that may help you avoid an unwanted shopping experience.

Shop Together

Take a friend or family member with you.  [Make sure the person that you bring along with you is equally aware of the tips in this article.]

Be Prepared on the Road

Make sure that you have enough gas in your car, and an emergency road kit for any road hazards. Carry a cell phone. Make sure your phone's battery is fully charged, and that important numbers are ready for speed dialing.

Park Smart

It may be difficult to find a good parking place, but do the best you can. Choose a very popular area in which to park, even if you don't like the nearby store. Make sure it is, or will be, a well-lit space at night. Make note of where you parked, so you don't have to do any unnecessary wondering around when you're finished shopping.

Avoid Suspicious People

If you feel that you are being followed, or if you have good reason to be uncomfortable with someone, go to the store manager's office or security office and explain your situation.

Be Private

Avoid counting your money publically, and don't openly flash it when making purchases.  Keep your voice down when giving out any personal information to the cashier (e.g. phone number, street address...). Also, make sure that you're not overheard while talking on the phone (e.g. "Bob's out of town, so I'm home alone tonight..." or "I bought that diamond necklace.").

Hide Your Goodies

Hide expensive items (e.g. cameras) well inside your shopping bag. If possible, avoid or hide bags that are too desciptive of their contents (e.g. jewelry stores). If you must take items out to your car, put them in the trunk. Make sure valuable items cannot be seen by looking through your car's window.

Be Alert

Always be aware of your surroundings. Keep your head up and look around, even if you're otherwise alert. You need to send a clear signal to others that you know what's going on around you.

Leaving the Store

If you feel unsafe in anyway when you're ready to leave the store, ask the store manager to have someone walk with you out to your vehicle. If this is not possible, call a friend, neighbor, or family member to come and get you.

When walking to your car, remember to keep your head up and look around. If you have a car remote that activates your vehicle's horn or remote engine start, use it. It may make a would-be attacker think that someone is waiting for you in your car. As soon as you've opened your door, lock the doors! This way, all you have to do is pull your door closed if someone tries to grab you.

If you are approached in a threatening manner, make all the noise you can, and do whatever it takes to make yourself safe. Many attackers are looking for a victim not a challenge.  Fight back!

If you have any reason to believe you are being followed home, don't go straight to your house. Instead, go to the nearest police station or any a public place where you can get help.

Have a safe shopping trip!