It’s the holiday season and Sheriff Patrick Ray wants to remind you of some tips to guard against being a victim of crime.
“As we are approaching one of the biggest shopping days of the year, Black Friday I would like to offer some tips for shoppers. When you go to a store, whether it be Black Friday or any time park as close as you can to the store and take notice of where you are parked,” said Sheriff Ray.
*Never leave your car unoccupied with the engine running.
*Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in your car lock it in your trunk or put it out of sight.
*Keep a secure hold on your purse or handbag. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
*When approaching or leaving your vehicle, always be aware of your surroundings.
*Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
*Ask the mall or store security you are in for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINE (ATM):
*If you use an ATM choose one located inside a mall or a well lit location. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need in case your wallet or purse is stolen or lost.
*Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you because they could look over your shoulder and see what numbers you are punching in.
*Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
SHOPPING:
*It is a good idea to shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member. Don’t shop alone.
*Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
*If you can, do not carry a pocketbook or wallet. Just Keep cash in your front pocket.
*Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas who may try to grab them from your pockets or shoulder.
*Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
*Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
CHILDREN:
*If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
*If you do take your small children with you, teach them to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case the child is separated from you.
*Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
*Never allow children to make trips to the restroom alone.
*Also, children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
*Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security in case they get lost.
*Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
AT HOME:
*Be sure to lock your doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes.
*When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.
*Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer if possible.
*When you do leave your home, make sure to leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.
*Never put large displays of holiday gifts that are visible through the windows and doors of your home.
*Know who is knocking at your door before you unlock and open it. Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts.
*Donate to a recognized charitable organization. People from charitable organizations often call and ask for money especially during the holidays. Make sure you know to whom you are giving your money. If you don’t know them, don’t donate. Instead give it to someone in our county, maybe to a local church that has a food pantry or a Christmas for Kids program. Never send money by Western Union and don’t give anyone purporting to be doing charitable organization work your credit card number. Protect yourself from scams.
If you have questions you may call Sheriff Ray at 615-597-4935, find him on Facebook, or stop by the Sheriff’s Office on the public square.
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