Shop safely this holiday season

By Mrs. Jennifer Bacchus (AMC)November 21, 2013

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(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- Officer Jonathan Butler of the Oxford Police Department shared tips for shopping safety with depot employees during his Nov. 13 appearance on The Morning Show.

According to Butler, shopping safety should begin with what you bring to the store and how you secure it.

For women, he recommended purses that go over the shoulder or cross the body and always making sure their bag is closed.

Men, according to Butler, should try carrying a small wallet or money clip in their front pocket, which is more secure.

Safety then extends to the time shopping, when he recommended everyone be aware of their surroundings at all times and remember that no deal is more valuable than your health and safety.

"Nothing is worth finding yourself in a situation where you may have to spend the holiday in jail," said Butler.

During a shopping trip, it is best to periodically take purchases to the car. This not only ensures you have a free hand while walking to the car, but also allows for better visibility.

For those with SUVs or trucks, who can't place packages out of sight in a trunk, using a blanket over belongings to keep them out of sight is best.

"If you have a GPS or smart phone lying around in the vehicle, a suspect may see that, knock out your window and reach in to grab it. In those situations, we have very little evidence to investigate," said Butler.

Security doesn't stop when the packages are locked in the vehicle, once you are ready to depart the parking lot, Butler recommended locking yourself in as well.

"Once you get in your car, always lock your doors," he said. "Try to make yourself as secure as possible."

Employees should also be conscious of their surroundings on the roads and in parking lots, which often become more congested during the holidays.

"Give yourself enough time to get where you are going," said Butler, as he reminded the workforce of construction zones along Alabama Highway 21 near shopping areas in Oxford.

The officer ended his Morning Show appearance by cautioning everyone to be aware of people who may use crowds and the holidays as an opportunity to con others out of money or belongings.

Butler said to return to a store or well-lit area if you see someone suspicious in a parking lot. Call the police and report the sighting.

Shopping with a friend can also reduce your chances of becoming a victim of opportunistic criminals.