Cape Girardeau police offer holiday shopping safety tips

The busiest shopping day of the year has arrived, and the Cape Girardeau Police Department is reminding consumers to be careful at area malls, retail outlets, downtown businesses and other stores throughout the holiday season.

Sgt. Barry Hovis said the holiday season can be a perfect time for criminals to commit shopping-related thefts. Shoppers should stay alert and be mindful of their surroundings, he said.

"Be aware of where you're at," Hovis said. "If you notice something suspicious, report it."

Hovis said shoppers should keep wallets, purses or merchandise hidden and vehicle doors locked.

Hovis said these steps lessen the chances of someone "breaking into your car and getting ahold of something that you value."

If shoppers wish to continue shopping, Cpl. Jason Selzer said, they should lock their possession in a trunk and move the vehicle to another location before re-entering the store. He said this could decrease chances of vehicle thefts.

While vehicle thefts are on the rise this time of year, Selzer said, crimes such as pickpocketing are less common.

"If you're afraid of something like that happening and you're a woman, hold on extra-tight to your purse," Selzer said. "If you're a man, place your wallet in your front pocket."

He also advised shoppers to carry as little cash and as few credit and debit cards as possible.

"You never know who is watching," Selzer said. "Someone may see you with money and later steal it from you."

Selzer advises shoppers to travel in pairs and shop during the day. But if shoppers are by themselves at night, Selzer said, they should park in a well-lit area and consider requesting a security escort.

Before leaving the store, Selzer added, shoppers should call a loved one to inform them of their whereabouts.

"That way, those people closest to you could call for help in case you don't arrive at your destination," he said.

Above all, Selzer said shoppers should be vigilant.

"We don't mind you calling us and having us check things out," he said. "That's what we're here for. By reporting suspicious activity, you may be preventing a crime."

bblackwell@semissourian.com

388-3628