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Tips for Holiday Shopping Safely
1: Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. If you must, stash them in the trunk where they are not visible.
2: Always lock your vehicle.
3: Be aware of crowds, as they are prime targets for “pick-pockets.” Be cautious of someone bumping into you.
4: Do not leave your purse in a shopping cart, even if only for a few seconds.
5: Do not allow people to see large amounts of cash, which makes you a target for thieves.
6: Park in a well-lit area near the store’s entrance.
7: Have your car’s keyless remote handy, ready to sound the alarm if someone is suspicious.
8: Alert security of anything suspicious or unusual.
9: Take a quick look inside your vehicle before getting in, and then immediately lock doors once you are inside.
10: Keep your cell phone handy in case you need to call 911 and be prepared to give details such as location and suspect/vehicle description.
Source: Conway Police Department
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NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KTHV) - 'Tis the season to hit the malls and shop for the holidays. But, while your mind is on the family members you are buying for, a thief's mind is on who would be his best target.
In order to help prevent people from falling victim to holiday shopping crimes, North Little Rock Police Sgt. Brian Dedrick is offering some advice.
"If you feel uncomfortable walking out with your bags at night, please call our non-emergency number (501-758-1234) and we'll make sure we send an officer over to walk you out," Dedrick said.
North Little Rock Police Dept. partners with certain retailers to have off-duty officers on-call for shopper protection. Dedrick said to enjoy the season, but be mindful of surroundings.
"Park in a well-lit area, as you can see in the mall there's a lot of lighting. Have your keys in hand when you approach your vehicle," Dedrick advised. "A lot of keys have lights on them. Hit it and light up the area."
Some retailers increase patrol around the holidays as well, especially on Black Friday, when many people are out late at night purchasing big-ticket items.
"I'll have about five guys off of my security team here at the store and then we'll have three off-duty police officers will be here helping us out as well," said Brandon White with Target.
White said the Target on McCain Boulevard in North Little Rock expects a large turnout and their post-Thanksgiving sale actually begins Thursday night. His advice to customers is to be patient during the hustle and bustle of Black Friday.
"Just be prepared to deal with the crowds and be prepared to wait," White suggested. "If everybody is prepared to wait, then things would probably go a little smoother than they have in the past."
Dedrick reminded everyone that life is far more valuable than belongings. He stressed that if anyone demands items, to hand them over, and report any suspicious activity to police.