The holiday season brings a surge in shopping activity, both in stores and online. Unfortunately, this uptick also attracts opportunistic criminals. To ensure your shopping experience remains joyful and secure, consider the following safety tips:

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Personal Safety While Shopping

• Stay Alert: Always be aware of your surroundings. Avoid distractions like texting or talking on the phone, which can make you an easy target.
  
• Shop During Daylight Hours: Whenever possible, do your shopping during the day. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
  
• Limit Cash: Carry only the amount of cash you need. Opt for credit or debit cards, which can be canceled if lost or stolen.
  

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Secure Your Belongings: Keep your purse close to your body or your wallet in an inside pocket. Avoid overloading yourself with packages to maintain mobility and visibility.

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Vehicle Safety

• Lock Your Doors: Always lock your car doors and close windows, even if you're stepping away for a short time.
  
• Hide Valuables: Keep shopping bags and valuables out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Visible items can tempt thieves.
  

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Park Wisely: Choose well-lit areas close to your destination. Avoid parking next to large vehicles or structures that can obstruct visibility.

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Online Shopping Precautions

• Use Secure Websites: Ensure the website's URL starts with "https" and look for a padlock icon, indicating a secure connection.
  
• Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Refrain from making purchases over public Wi-Fi networks, which can be vulnerable to hackers.
  
• Monitor Accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Report any suspicious activity immediately.

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If an Incident Occurs

• Emergency Situations: If you feel threatened or witness a crime in progress, call 911 immediately.
• Non-Emergency Situations: For non-urgent matters, contact your local police department's non-emergency number. 

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Stay Informed: Familiarize yourself with local law enforcement contact information and save these numbers in your phone for quick access.

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By staying vigilant and following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable shopping experience this holiday season. Remember, your safety is paramount—take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.

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About Deploy Surveillance

Deploy Surveillance offers self-sufficient, solar-powered hybrid mobile surveillance units for cloud-based monitoring, uniquely tailored to meet the security needs of any setting. All trailers and camera units are proudly made in the U.S.A. Headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, the company serves clients nationwide. For more information or to request a custom quote, visit https://www.deploysurveillance.com.

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