HCSO Offers Tips On Black Friday And Holiday Shopping Safety

  • Tuesday, November 24, 2015

The nation’s most anticipated shopping day of the year is very quickly approaching.

Officials with the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office said, "In light of this event, the HCSO would like to offer the following tips to help make sure your “Black Friday” shopping experience is enjoyable and safe for you, your family, and your friends. Even though Black Friday is only one major shopping event, the precautions listed below should be kept in mind during the entire holiday shopping period.

"Remember, during the upcoming holidays, especially Black Friday, thousands of people will converge on our local shopping venues.

It is important to protect yourself from unnecessary thefts and safety incidents."

Driving Precautions
1.       For those who will be driving to various shopping venues, especially those who will begin shopping in the early hours of the night, please do not drive intoxicated.
2.       Drive safely and be prepared for traffic delays, especially in and around areas where shopping malls are located.
3.       Do not run red-lights at storefront intersections.
4.       Keep children secure in car seats even if just driving across a parking lot from one store to another.

Parking Lot Precautions
1.       Always lock your vehicle and shop with a friend or family member.
2.       Hold your child’s hand and keep them controlled in the parking lot.
3.       Check the back seat of your car before getting into your vehicle.
4.       If you are concerned with walking to your car if you are alone, always ask store/mall security if they would escort you and your items to your vehicle.
5.       Have your keys in your hand when approaching your vehicle.
6.       If you know you will have multiple packages in your car while you shop, make arrangements with a friend or family member to collect gifts throughout the day at various points so that your vehicle will remain empty of high value packages. If a friend or family member is not available to pick up your packages, it is always best to take your packages home periodically so as to keep your vehicle empty of packages.
7.       For vehicles without tinted windows, always keep high value packages in your trunk.  Never leave your packages such as TV’s or appliances exposed in your vehicle or the bed of your truck.

Shopping Precautions
1.       Try to shop online whenever possible to try to avoid large waits and congested stores.
2.       Do not flash cash or place your wallet in an unsecure area. Women should keep purses secure and keep the  strap over one shoulder to avoid snatch and grab opportunities.
3.       Men should keep their wallets in zip up pockets or in their front pocket where they can easily feel if a pick-pocket is trying to steal their wallet.
4.       Remember to be courteous to other shoppers and do not become confrontational. If you have an issue, please contact store security or contact law enforcement.
5.       Be constantly aware of your surroundings. If you suspect suspicious activity, get your family to safety and report any and all suspicious activity.
6.       Avoid public areas where foot traffic is difficult and exits are few.
7.       Keep an eye on your children at all times. Stores can be chaotic and children can get lost quickly.
8.       Do not buy more packages than you can safely carry.
9.       Keep copies of your online receipts and all in-store receipts.
10.   Always double check each time you use your wallet, credit card or check book that it is secure after purchases.

Shopping Precautions with Children
1.       Do not leave children unattended in any store for any unspecified amount of time.
2.       Teach children to know who they can ask in a store for assistance such as mall security and store staff.
3.       Give them a card with your contact information.
4.       Keep an up to date photograph of your child with you should they get lost.

Happenings
Michael Gerard Receives American Police Hall Of Fame Civilian Medal Of Appreciation
Michael Gerard Receives American Police Hall Of Fame Civilian Medal Of Appreciation
  • 3/18/2024

Collegedale officers responded to Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove on Sept. 21, 2023, after receiving a report of a missing elderly resident with dementia. The patient had left the facility approximately ... more

New Hamilton County Marriage Licenses
  • 3/18/2024

Here are the new marriage licenses from the County Clerk's office: SCOTT EDWARD KELLEY JAIMIE LYNN PASTORI 2205 JAMES AVE 4203 TENNESSEE AVE CHATTANOOGA, Tennessee 374156511 CHATTANOOGA, ... more

Chief John Ross DAR Presents Gold ROTC Medal
Chief John Ross DAR Presents Gold ROTC Medal
  • 3/18/2024

Chief John Ross Chapter, NSDAR had their March meeting on the 13th, and the meeting theme was Women’s History Month. Officials said, "Chapter member, Kay Sencabaugh, presented an entertaining ... more