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Woman's
Safety and Security Guide For Holiday Shopping
These suggestions are intended to enhance your personal
safety. The information is based upon guidelines from federal, state, and
local law enforcement agencies.
As
the seasons change and you are getting into the swing of this holiday season, be
sure to be alert while doing your holiday shopping.
Although it is a very merry time of year, and tis' the season to be
jolly, it's very important you keep your alert modes fine-tuned. The Grinches of
the holiday season will be on the prowl. This can be applied not only to
the holiday season but to any time of year.
While
doing your shopping, here are some helpful tips to remember:
While
Parking and Exiting Your Car
*
Park your car in well-lit, well traveled areas if possible
*
Be sure you are aware of your surroundings
* Use your mirrors
to check the sides and rear of your car
* If you must keep
packages or valuables in your car, put them out of site or in the trunk
* If you have to
walk through a parking lot, walk through the middle of the aisles of cars
* Be extra
cautious in enclosed parking areas
* Use a garage if
you have one
* Lock your car
when it's not attended
*
Don't have flashy jewels exposed
*
Be mindful of where your purse is
Returning To
Your Parked Car
*
Have mace or at least your keys in your hand as you approach the store and
return to your car.
* Beware of
occupied cars around you
*
As you return to your car, check the back seat before getting
into it.
While
Driving Your Car
*
Keep windows rolled up and doors locked
*
Avoid routes that are not well traveled or well lit
*
When possible, car pool or share rides. Try to go shopping with a friend
*
Slow down well before reaching red traffic lights and stop signs. Allow
the vehicle to roll to a stop
IMPORTANT
While
driving, be aware of "bump and run" incidents. These are cases
when someone will bump into your car from behind with his/her car. When
you get out of your car to see what happened, people then proceed to steal from
you or even steal your car. If the action or language of the other driver
seems threatening to you, do not shut off the ignition and do not immediately
exit your car. Use a cell phone if you have one or drive to the nearest
police station, fire station, or open store and call the police.
When
stopped in traffic, always leave enough room between you and the car in front of
you in case you have to go around it. Keep your wallet or purse out of
view while driving. Do not leave them on the seat beside you.
If
someone tries to force you off the road, do not panic... Blow your horn
constantly to attract attention. If you are forced over, as soon as you
stop, put your car in reverse and back away. Keep blowing the horn and
moving the car as much as possible.
If
you suspect that someone is following you, make a few turns down busy streets,
if possible. If the car behind you makes the same turns, go to the nearest
police station, fire station, or nearest store call the police. Do not try
to drive to your own quiet residential area.
If
you have any questions about these or any other security issues, please contact
your local police station.
THE
KEY TO AVOIDANCE IS AWARENESS. BE ALERT. KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON
AROUND YOU.
Most
importantly, remember to enjoy the season.
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