By Gail A. Tierney
Public Information Officer

Traditionally, the day after Thanksgiving, or Black Friday, is the busiest, most hectic holiday shopping day for consumers and retailers alike.

Not surprisingly, the Monday following Thanksgiving, or Cyber Monday, is the equivalent for e-tailers looking for their own piece of the commerce pie.

The Sheriff’s Office offers the following seasonal safety tips to help citizens reduce their chances of being victimized this holiday season. 

DRIVING:

• Never leave your vehicle unlocked or the windows open.
• Always park in well-lighted areas.
• Stow your packages and other valuables either in the trunk or out of sight.
• If you see suspicious people or activity in the area, don’t approach your vehicle alone.  Ask for an escort by store security or law enforcement whenever you feel uncomfortable.
• For your own protection, carry a whistle and compact flashlight with you wherever you go.
• Have your keys in hand to enter your vehicle without delay.

• Check inside, underneath and around your vehicle before getting in.
• Once inside, lock the doors immediately and start the ignition.
• Be responsible: Don’t drink and drive.  Always designate a non-drinking driver.

SHOPPING:

• Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
• Walk with confidence and authority, and stay in well-lighted, well-traveled areas.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or flashing your money in public.  Instead, carry credit and debit cards, or only the checks you’ll need for the day.
• Find safety in numbers!  Plan your shopping trips with family or friends.
• Keep a close eye on children at all times.  Teach them to go to a store employee, security guard or deputy if they become lost or separated from you.  Always accompany children into public rest rooms.
• Wherever you shop, wear conservative, comfortable clothing and minimal jewelry to avoid attracting thieves’ attention.
• Don’t overburden yourself with packages, and never leave your parcels unattended.
• Avoid looping the strap of a shoulder bag around your neck.  When carrying a purse, keep it in front of you and close to your body.  Or consider wearing a fanny pack up front to deter purse-snatchers.
• Never leave your purse in a shopping cart or on a counter while you pay for your purchases.  If you carry a change purse or wallet, keep it in an inside coat or front pants pocket.

ONLINE:

• Shop only from a secure PC with anti-spyware and anti-virus software, plus firewalls, in place.
• Avoid search-engine shopping, and only shop at sites you know and trust.  Understand the merchant’s shipping and return policies before making any online purchases.
• Use your credit card instead of a debit card to make payment.  It offers additional consumer protection.  Safeguard your password, too.
• Keep good records of all the details relating to your online transactions.  Make sure you have a valid e-mail address or phone number to clear up any questions or problems. 

Take the proper precautions, and don’t become a victim of crime this holiday season.

Gail Tierney is public information officer for the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office.  She has been with the agency for 19 years.  Comments or suggestions may be directed to Gail at 352-341-7460 or gtierney@sheriffcitrus.org.