• Carry a cell phone if you have one.
• Carry only small amounts of cash
• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible—or go with a friend if you shop at night (or the pre-dawn sales).
• Carry keys, credit cards and cash separate from each other.
• Be extremely careful and watchful when using ATM machines.
• Wear conservative, comfortable clothing, and minimal jewelry.
• While driving, keep your doors locked and windows rolled up – including in the parking lot.
• Maintain at least half a tank of fuel

WHILE SHOPPING

• If you have to carry a purse, carry it close to your body and keep it zipped.
• Park close to where you are going and park in a well-lit area.
• Heighten your awareness – be aware of your surroundings and who is nearby.
• Grip carried items firmly and do not leave them unattended.
• Do not overload yourself with packages to maintain visibility and freedom of motion, and to avoid mishaps.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• When hurried or in a crowded shop, take the time to make sure you get all forms of ID and credit cards returned to you before leaving.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost or stolen.
• Keep a record of all credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Keep a close eye on children while shopping.

AFTER SHOPPING

• Leave the mall before closing time; it is safer to walk out of the mall with other people.
• Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distraction with the intent of taking your money or belongings.
• Use an escort or mall security if you have a lot of packages or if you are leaving the mall after closing.
• When returning to your vehicle, carry your keys in your hand and be ready to unlock the door and enter as quickly as possible.
• Check under your car as you approach it; this is a common spot for criminals to hide.
• Check the interior of your car before entering.

AT HOME

• After opening gifts, break down cardboard boxes of expensive electronics and put them somewhere out of public view prior to disposal, to hide the fact you have new high-value items in your home.