The holiday season is a time for giving, sharing and enjoying family and friends. Unfortunately, it's also a season for criminals, who have more targets carrying extra money with lowered awareness.
But there are ways to protect yourself and to lessen your chances of a crime happening to you.
- Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry, do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
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Keep your mind on your surroundings, who's in front of you and who's behind you. Don't get distracted.
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Walk purposefully, stand tall, and make eye contact with people around you.
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TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS. If you feel uncomfortable, leave.
- Always carry your Texas Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
- Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
- Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
- Keep cash in your front pocket.
- Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
- Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
- Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
- Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
- Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.
Take the Holiday Safety Quiz - Answering the questions can help determine if you are doing all that you can to protect yourself and your family from would-be criminals during the holiday season at home while shopping.
Click on the link below to begin the test. At the end of the quiz you will be given a score, which is completely confidential and can only be seen by you. START THE QUIZ!