Shopping not always safe

By The Daily Progress

Published: November 27, 2008

A recent knifepoint robbery at Barracks Road Shopping Center is a warning to all of us.

Police say these types of robberies increase during the holiday season, and remind us to be aware of our surroundings and alert to avoid any danger.
The Barracks Road robbery, in which the victim was forced to give up his wallet, might not have been preventable by any reasonable measure.

Still, following some basic precautions can reduce your odds of becoming a victim.
—Don’t carry large amounts of cash; try paying for most purchases with a check, or a debit or credit card. Keep an eye on your card as it’s being processed, and make sure you get it back.
—Don’t carry large or numerous packages; while you’re struggling with your load, a thief can overpower you or grab your purse.
—If you carry a purse, keep it close to your body. Or, don’t carry a purse; use a wallet that you keep in a front pocket.
—Store packages or other valuables out of sight in the trunk or under the seat. While hiding packages, check around to make sure you’re not being observed.
—Keep your children close to you; do not let them out of sight. Teach children what to do if they find themselves alone, just in case you do lose each other in a crowd.
—Don’t leave children, or pets, in a vehicle.
—After dark, park in a well-lit area as close to the store as possible. The next best thing is to park close to the shopping cart return area so that you can unload your purchases and return the cart quickly, limiting your exposure to potential robbers.
—Don’t park beside a van or large truck, which could provide cover for an assailant.
—Tell a friend or family member where you’re going and when you expect to return.
—Or go shopping with a friend; it makes the outing more pleasurable and makes you less vulnerable to predators.
—Keep your eyes and ears open and if you feel uncomfortable, go back to the store or other busy, well-lit space. Alert security if you see anything suspicious.

The holidays are supposed to be fun.
Making the effort to follow a few simple precautions might seem to leach some of the fun out of the holidays, but it’s hard to have a good time unless you also know you’re safe.