Keeping Safe While Holiday Shopping
The holiday season is prime time for thefts and other dangerous situations in store parking lots. In a recent article in the New York Post, a self-defense expert shared essential tips to help shoppers navigate these risks and stay safe during the bustling holiday season.
- Know about the shopping cart ruse. Thieves will sometimes place shopping carts behind your car, forcing you to exit your vehicle to move the cart out of the way. Beware. If your car is still running when you do so, the thief can easily jump in the driver’s seat and drive away. It’s also a way for criminals to steal your purchases while you’re moving the cart. If you must leave your car, shut it off, lock it, and take the keys with you. Do not be afraid to walk into the store and ask security for help.
- Try tactical parking. Often, people drive directly into a spot when parking. This forces you to back out when leaving. Considering changing your approach and next time, use tactical parking—backing into a spot so you can easily drive out. It offers a faster escape route and a better view of your surroundings. It also most likely would circumvent the shopping cart ruse.
- Keep your doors locked. Locked doors help limit access to your car and your valuables. Set your car’s controls so your door only unlocks when you open it from the inside. When you’re getting into your car, make sure the driver’s door is the only one that unlocks when you use your key or fob.
- Put down your phone. It’s tempting to check your phone as you’re exiting your car or returning to it when shopping. Hold off on doing it, as it could distract you to potential danger. Be aware of your surroundings when walking to your car and when leaving the parking lot. Look side to side and notice if someone is following you. When you get into your car, leave right away. Don’t linger. Checking your phone while you’re sitting idle could leave you open to a potential crime.
- Carry a tool for self-defense. If you are comfortable doing so, bring along a self-defense tool that is legal in your area. Even an alarm or some type of sound device can be useful in scaring away thieves.
Inadequate lighting and other hazards can create opportunities for dangerous situations. If you were the victim of a crime in an area parking lot and you believe that negligence was involved, it might help to speak with a top Philadelphia negligent security law firm to discuss the next steps. Contact us to set a time to meet today.