Authorities say taking a few safety steps can keep a grinch from ruining your holiday shopping experience.
COLUMBIA (WACH) - Tis the season of giving and authorities say there are lots of people out there willing to take what you've got. Officials say with a little vigilance you can keep a grinch from ruining your holiday shopping experience.
Just like you are attracted to shopping malls around this time so are crooks looking to make an easy score.
The Columbia Police Department offers this advice to keep you safe while shopping
- Map out your shopping plan
- Always be aware of your surroundings
- Don't carry a lot of cash
- Let someone know where you're going
“While you're out there shopping and trying to get items off your Christmas list there are going to be predators out there trying to find the prey, and the prey are the people not really paying attention, leaving things in vehicles in plain view or having their purses open or flashing large sums of cash on them when they're out there,” said Sgt. Ron Felder with the Columbia Police Department.
Officials say it's also a good idea to bring a friend with you while shopping, especially when it's dark outside.
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