Shopping safety

The retail season before Christmas is a happy time, but the joy of giving can be shattered by criminals taking advantage of unprepared shoppers.

There are some simple things you can do to keep you and your purchases safe.

One thing is to be alert. While you're concentrating on getting bargains, be aware of what's going on around you.

Protect the valuables in your purse or wallet. If you put your purse down for a moment while you check out a product, you're inviting someone to take it. Don't leave valuable unattended in shopping carts.

If you are making several trips to your car in the parking lot to stow purchases, be sure to put them out of sight, preferably in the trunk. Police even advise moving your car from time to time to thwart thieves.

Most of all, do everything you can to protect your personal safety. This includes having others with you when you go to the parking lot. Look around to make sure of your safety. And if you see anything suspicious, don't hesitate to report it. Better to be wrong than robbed.

Make the most of this time of buying gifts. Stay safe.