Though we love the holiday season, it a time to heighten your awareness of safety. Here are a few tips we found, courtesy of the LAPD, about keeping yourself and your vehicle safe during the holiday shopping season:
Driving
-
Avoid driving alone or at night.
-
Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.
-
If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.
-
Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.
-
Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.
-
Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.
-
Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. This creates a temptation for thieves. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.
-
Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.
-
Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.
-
When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.
-
Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.
-
Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.
Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
-
If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a police station, mall, or well-lighted location. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.
-
Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you.
-
Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location.
Shopping
-
Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
-
Dress casually and comfortably.
-
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
-
Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
-
Always carry your California Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
-
Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
-
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
-
Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
-
Keep cash in your front pocket.
-
Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
-
Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
-
Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
-
Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
-
Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
Children
-
If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
-
Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
-
Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
-
Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
-
Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
-
Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.
Hosting a Party
-
Have non-alcoholic beverages available for party guests.
-
Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.
-
Arrange for an official designated driver for your party who will not drink at all.
Attending a Party
-
Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages.
-
Eat high protein foods that will stay in your stomach longer and slow the absorption of alcohol into your system.
-
Remember only time will eliminate the alcohol from your body.
-
Know your safe limit.
- Never drink and drive.
Source: http://www.roberts-autorepair.com/blog/are-you-and-your-car-ready-for-the-shopping-season/
No comments:
Post a Comment