As we anticipate the busiest shopping season; we also understand that the crime rates will increase. In recent pasts, we see spikes in “Porch Pirates” as we find ourselves shopping more online for ease and convenience not to mention it’s always open no matter what our personal shopping hours might be.
So what can we do to minimize a Grinch encounter, that is avoid becoming a victim to theft?
Whether your out and about shopping in person or packages pile up at your front door, there are some things to consider to protect yourself and your purchases.
- If ordering online, check with neighbor who may be home, or work from home, and can watch or collect your deliveries for you. This is important if you’re going to be away for several days.
- Consider having packages shipped to your place of work, or a trusted friend’s place if possible.
- Have lights on a timer, so your home looks like you’re home. I recently found a voice activated light (I found one at Walgreens) which I’ll place in a room near the front door or our back door. Since it’s activated by sound, it’s irregularity is more organic.
- Keep doors locked and garage door closed as much as possible.
I imagine you’re envisioning scenes from famous Christmas movies about now, such as Home Alone.
If shopping at your local department stores or in person, be aware of those around you.
- Do you keep seeing the same person/people no matter where you go within the store and a second shop (specially at Malls).
- Keep your credit card number close to you until asked for it. Remember, most stores have security cameras and if you plop your credit card out (on the counter) are the numbers showing so anyone can see it (or can take a picture of the numbers)?
- Consider using a RFID credit card wallet to avoid being skimmed. It can happen so why not take the necessary precautions?
- Again, when shopping at malls, be aware of who’s around you and where you’re parking.
- Trust you instinct, trust your body! If something doesn’t FEEL right, just go with it! It doesn’t matter if you feel foolish for it. Better safe than not, right? That feeling IS your body’s way of protecting you. Our minds can’t often determine what might be harmful, but our gut can.
- Watch your packages; hold on to your packages. Don’t make multiple runs to your car to “drop off” your bags and return to shop for the rest of the items. If you go out to your vehicle; plan to leave with what you have for that shopping excursion. Yes, others may be waiting in the parking lot for someone just like you- dropping gifts off in an empty car and being “abandoned” for the next hour or so.
How to be proactive at home.
- If your Christmas tree is in the front window, don’t put packages under the tree until the last minute. Your Christmas tree is already a signal to criminals for “free goodies”. Don’t show them what they are missing by having everything under the tree.
- Do you realize how easy it is to see inside of your home with all the lights on? Close your blinds, drapery, window coverings at night.
- Turn on outdoor lights, especially around places where one might want to hide. Understand that your entry ways are the most vulnerable for attacks, and where the bad guy lurks.
- Back up into your driveway when unloading packages. This prevents noisy neighbors, or criminals, from seeing your gifts. I’ve done this and it is a powerful feeling of being in control.
Whatever holiday you’re celebrating, we hope these tips will ensure it’s one that brings you and your loved ones much joy!
Stay Safe. XO
