Tips for safe holiday shopping

Where does the expression “Black Friday come from?

The day was dubbed "Black Friday" back in the 1960s, when account books were still kept using pen and ink and the day's sales helped move stories out of the "red" (losses) and into the "black" (profits)

Historically Black Friday has been the biggest shopping day of the year, it’s changing with online shopping but still remains a big shopping day and with that comes c rime

We scoured the web and came up with these tips to stay safe

While shopping at night, park in well lit areas, look and park near police lookouts and cameras on light posts

Be aware of your surroundings at all times, when approaching your car look around

Do not leave anything in plain view in your car, if you are buying large items, buy them last or bring them home right away, they are an invitation to break into your car

Shop with a group. There is safety in numbers.

If shopping with children make sure that you have identified a central location to meet in the event that you become separated.

Use only one credit card. Should there be a security breach, you will reduce the risk of having multiple cards compromised.

Never allow the sales clerk put your receipt into your shopping bag with your items. Should that bag be stolen or lost an offender can return those items without question.

Keep your purse close to your body or your wallet in an inside coat pocket or front pants pocket.

Don’t remove cash until the moment you are ready to make a purchase.

Never argue or fight over an item.