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POLICE OFFER TIPS FOR SHOPPER SAFETY

By Ray King/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF
Monday, December 10, 2007 10:00 AM CST

With the holiday shopping season in full swing, Pine Bluff police are offering some tips on how to do it safely, especially in areas where large numbers of people are present, such as malls.

“Safe shopping is no accident,” Lt. Bob Rawlinson said. “There are a number of things people can do to increase their own safety, and one of the most important is being aware of their surroundings.”

He said that while the police department will add extra patrols in shopping areas, using both marked and unmarked vehicles, there are some simple steps area residents can take to help protect themselves.

That starts with parking on lots that are frequently crowded this time of year, and Rawlinson said to look around and see who and what is around you before getting out and locking your vehicle’s doors.

“If it’s dark, try to park and walk in lighted areas if at all possible and be sure to roll up the vehicle’s windows, lock the doors and take the keys,” he said. “Also, don’t visibly display items such as briefcases, purses, backpacks, cell phones, bags or packages in the vehicle. Lock them in the trunk if your vehicle has one or if not, put them on the floorboard under a blanket or clothes.”

Once reaching a store, Rawlinson said shoppers should become aware of their surroundings and remain alert.

“Avoid concentrating so hard on shopping that you fail to keep track of your surroundings, others near you, or your personal property,” he said. “Wear conservative, comfortable clothing. Grip carried items firmly and avoid leaving them unattended. Carry minimal cash and valuables, and wear minimal jewelry.”

Police also recommend shopping with friends or relatives whenever possible.

“There is safety in numbers and as you shop, be alert in crowded places because pickpockets look for things like revolving doors and jammed aisles, especially during peak shopping times,” Rawlinson said.

If you must shop with children, he said they should be taught to go to a clerk or security guard if they get separated in a store or mall.

“Be sure they know their first and last name so they can tell someone who they are,” Rawlinson said. “Children under four should be kept in a stroller. If you put them in a shopping cart, be sure they’re properly belted and seated in the child carrier area at all times. Never let your child stand in or push a shopping cart, and if possible, leave them with a relative or baby sitter.”

If a shopper is buying multiple gifts, Rawlinson suggested returning to their vehicle periodically to check on it, and to reduce the amount of items you have to carry and watch out for.

“Return to the store or mall for assistance if you spot suspicious activity near your vehicle,” Rawlinson said. “Stay alert while loading items into or out of your vehicle or arranging cargo storage. If someone approaches and you feel threatened, get in and lock up until they leave the area, or if they loiter, drive away.”

In addition to adding extra patrols in shopping areas, Rawlinson said officers will be on the lookout for aggressive drivers, drinking drivers, and those not using seat belts.

“Chief John Howell is also asking drivers to slow down when approaching accident scenes or officers conducting vehicle traffic stops,” Rawlinson said. “Officers have continued to be involved in, or narrowly escaped crashes while stopped for those situations. Arkansas law provides that motorists shall change lanes to allow law enforcement officers to do their jobs safely.”

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