It might be the most wonderful time of the year, but crowded stores and stressed out shoppers can lead to an increased threat of theft and holiday crime.
To help our Butler Durrell customers stay safe, we’ve put together these five survival tips for staying safe while completing your holiday shopping.
Shop With a Buddy
Since there’s safety in numbers, shopping with a friend helps make you less vulnerable to theft or crime. This is especially important if you’re shopping after dark so you can avoid walking to your car alone.
Avoid Carrying Large Amounts of Cash
Cash is easier to steal and can make you an easy target for holiday thieves. Use a credit card when possible and only keep cash in your front pocket where it’s less likely to be noticed.
Be Wary of Your Surroundings
In the hustle and the bustle of shopping, it’s not uncommon to get overly focused on the task at hand and let your guard down. Stay alert of your surroundings and be wary of strangers approaching.
Choose Your Parking Spot Carefully
Though crowded parking lots might not leave you many options, try to park as close to the store entrance as possible or in a well-lit area under a lamppost. Don’t hesitate to ask a security guard to escort you to your car if you feel uneasy.
Stay Calm
Holiday shopping is stressful, but allowing yourself to get frazzled can make you more vulnerable to incident. Remaining calm and focused will help you get through your list safely and efficiently.
By taking a few extra precautions, you can help reduce your risk of becoming a victim of holiday crime. That way, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your holiday with the people you love. Stay safe St. Louis!
