Police: Don’t be victim; use common sense

By John Howell
Criminals always target shoppers during the holidays, but shoppers who observe common sense precautions have a better chance of avoiding an unpleasant experience, Batesville Deputy Police Chief Jimmy McCloud said.

 
Not surprisingly, many of the suggestions McCloud has compiled for holidays center on securing one’s self, valuables and vehicle and are just common sense. Foremost among them: lock your vehicle and your home. That should be so obvious as not to have to be suggested, but police constantly respond to complaints of burglaries from unlocked vehicles. (See story below.)
“Don’t leave valuables in your car,” McCloud said. “If you must leave items in your car while shopping, keep them out of sight. Consider placing them in your trunk.”
“While out shopping, don’t leave receipts in your vehicle,” he said. Even receipts left in a vehicle can be stolen and used to create problems for the theft victim, the retailer or both.
Park in well-lighted areas and be aware of your surroundings before you get out of your vehicle and then when you return to it after shopping.
“Have your keys ready to unlock your vehicle as you approach it,” McCloud said. Standing beside a vehicle while fumbling through a purse searching for keys distracts one from his or her surroundings and makes one more vulnerable, according to the deputy chief.
“These are crimes of opportunity,” he said. “Don’t get distracted and create an opportunity for a criminal.”
The police department spokesman urges shoppers to carry only the credit cards planned for use during a specific shopping trip and only limited amounts of cash. These items, along with an ID should be carried in a front pocket if you have one.
“Don’t leave purses unattended anywhere,” McCloud continued. Neither in shopping carts inside a store or while transferring purchases from shopping cart to a vehicle in the parking lot. Don’t leave a purse in a vehicle even if it’s locked.
Carry your phone. Make sure you have programmed 911, local police and ICE (in case of emergency) numbers into your contacts.
“Do not resist if someone is attempting to take items from you,” McCloud said. “Do not give chase to the suspect; they could be armed. Call 911”
“Don’t make yourself vulnerable with your social media postings,” he said. “Remember, criminals monitor social media also.” Never post vacation photos or photos from a shopping experience until you have returned home. Be careful what items can be seen in the background of photos you post on social media, he said. A criminal might spot something that he thinks would be worth his effort to steal.
The Batesville Police Department offers vacation checks for resident who will be away from home during the holidays or any other time, according to the police spokesman. BPD also provides escorts to businesses making bank deposits. Call 563-5653 for more information.