4 Holiday Shopping Safety Tips
It’s that time of year again when malls, boutiques, and department stores are packed with holiday shoppers. Everyone is out looking for those last-minute steals. It just so happens criminals are doing the exact same thing. They know you’re carrying around a lot more money and merchandise than you normally would, so they’re out in force preying on easy targets.
This is why I want you to be highly diligent and security savvy.
Here are 4 tips to help keep you safe this holiday season:
Tip No.1: Cash is not always king. Don’t carry cash on you. Period. If somebody steals your wallet or purse, you’re out all that money. And there’s typically no way to ever get it back. That’s why I want you to only carry credit cards. Cards can easily be replaced, and any loss that’s incurred on them becomes the responsibility of the credit card company, not you. Just make sure you report them stolen the minute you realize they’re gone to ensure you get reimbursed and the credit card company can begin their investigation. Carrying credit cards only is one of the best gifts to yourself this holiday season.
Tip No. 2: Watch out for carjackers. Be hyper aware when walking to your car. Carjackers need you to be close to your car for them to steal it. When leaving a store, pause from a distance before approaching your vehicle. Slowly scan the area to see who and what is around your parking spot. Pay attention if there are people lingering nearby or to anyone parked next to you, especially if they’re sitting idle. If so, don’t approach. And if you sense someone is following you when walking toward your vehicle, turn around and go back inside. If it feels off, trust your instincts. Some places even have security personnel who will escort you to your car.
Tip No. 3: How fast can you lock it. When you get to your car, stow your merchandise as quickly as possible. Don’t waste time or become distracted by feeling the need to organize everything right then, especially with your back turned toward anyone who might be approaching. Close the door to wherever you put your bags as fast as possible, then get into your vehicle and lock your doors before doing anything else. You can situate yourself once safely inside. Remember, it’s not about being paranoid; it’s about being security conscious. A few seconds of focused prevention can save you a lot of time, money, and frustration by not becoming a victim of theft.
Tip No. 4: Get off your phone. Some people mistakenly think being on their phone while walking alone will keep them safer. Wrong. Phones are a distraction. And offenders are more likely to target you if you are on it. Also, the person on the line can’t do anything to help you at that moment. So, put your phone away and have your wits about you. If you want to tell someone where you are, do so before you start heading toward your car.
I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday season.
Evy
P.S. After receiving hundreds of requests to host on-line classes on ways to up-level your life, I’m finally launching a series called Beyond Bulletproof. Look out for my special announcement coming in January.