Simple tips to keep you and your belongings safe while shopping
ALPENA, Mich. – It’s a normal thing you see, women placing their purse in the front of their shopping cart.
But as shopping ramps up in the next few weeks, here are some tips to keep your purse, items and yourself safe.
Wednesday’s news of a Walmart purse snatching serves as a warning –- the holidays are coming, and so are the opportunist.
Lt. Derrick Carroll from the Michigan State Police said being aware is the first key to safety.
“Be aware of where you’re at and who’s around you,” said Carroll.
He also asks women to make sure their purse is always visible.
“Make sure if you have valuables like a purse or other things keep them close to your side,” Carroll added. “And if you set them in your shopping cart, make sure you always have a visual on that. And if you plan to leave your shopping cart for a moment take your valuable items with you.”
Other tips include: to park and walk in well–lit areas, carry as little as possible and to also lock your car doors.
“Most of the time we find that things being stolen from vehicles are simply because the owner has left their vehicle unlocked,” said Carroll.
Carroll’s message is simple.
“We’re in Northern Michigan and people normally feel secure, but it’s the crime of opportunity.”
Additional tips:
Safety in the Parking Lots
- Park and walk in well-lit areas.
- Walk with confidence be aware of people around you, and know where you parked.
- Always lock your car doors after leaving or entering your car.
- Have your keys in your hand so that you do not have to linger before entering your car. Check the back seat before you get in.
- Don’t leave packages on the car seats. Keep packages out of sight in the trunk or under a covered rear cargo area.
Safety While Shopping
- Pay with checks or credit cards when possible. Do not flash large amounts of cash.
- Don’t leave any purchases or your purse unattended while shopping or in a dressing room.
- Try to carry as little as possible. Make multiple trips to your vehicle to store your purchases.
- Never leave your children alone.
- If your children get separated from you, teach them to find a cashier or a security officer and ask for help.
Report all suspicious activity. Call 911 with a description.
