It’s back to school time for you and “Peak Season” for the predator!
As you go about the business of preparing your child for school, beware of the petty thieves and robbers lurking in the malls and parking lots. Statistics show that August and December are peak crime months for petty thieves and robbers.
They know that you’re going to be out in numbers spending large sums of money on school clothes and supplies. Contrary to popular belief, predators are very smart. They watch the news and read the paper to see where the big sales are going to be. They survey certain department stores and malls to see which ones have security and quick escape routes. Then they sit and wait for the race to begin.
Here is a list of preventive measures you can take to avoid being a victim:
- Be aware of your surroundings while out at the malls and parking lots.
- Stay off your cell phone, while shopping, so you can stay alert
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash. Use your credit or debit card for large transactions.
- Carry your purse over your shoulder, pulled slightly to the front of your body.
- Avoid shopping at night. If you must, be sure to bring someone with you.
- Place all of your items in the trunk of your vehicle. This will reduce your chances of being a victim of a “smash and grab”.
- Do not place your purse in the shopping cart… keep it with you at all times.
- Be sure to keep your hands free when exciting the store. Use a shopping cart to transport your bags to your vehicle.
- When exciting the store, scan the parking lot and walk down the center of the street.
- Keep your keys and cell phone in your pocket, so if your purse is stolen you can still call for help and get home. This also helps prevent the robbers from having easy access to your house.
- Look in, around and under your vehicle before entering.
- With ID theft being a major concern, keep all of your receipts handy and match them against your online statement for accuracy.
- Be sure to carry a personal safety item, such as the Defender Safety Keychain, with you at all times.
- If approached, unless you are trained in self defense, do not fight or chase after the thief. You can always replace your items. (You only want to fight if they try to physically harm or kidnap you)
By taking these simple steps you will greatly reduce your chances of becoming a victim!
