Merced police urge holiday shoppers to take precautions

Merced law enforcement officials urged resident to take “common sense” steps to protect themselves as the holiday shopping season kicks off and stores anticipate a crush of customers looking for price deals on Black Friday, one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

“So much of your safety really is just a matter of common sense and following your instincts,” Merced police Capt. Tom Trindad said.

Authorities said Merced does not have much of a history of violence on Black Fridays, but said thefts are a much more common – and preventable – problem.

“It really is just taking the time and being patient enough to take basic steps like locking all your valuable packages in the trunk of your vehicle,” Merced County sheriff’s Sgt. Delray Shelton said. “Don’t leave any valuables in plain view and always make sure you lock your vehicle and roll up your windows when shopping.”

Authorities said shoppers should try to park their cars in well-lit areas during the early morning and evening hours.

“If you’re shopping (online) make sure it’s with a reputable, well-known, safe company and make sure you’re using a legitimate website,” Trindad said. “Trust your intuition, too. If a certain deal sounds like it’s too good to be true, it probably is too good to be true.”

Police reminded residents to never give out personal information such as Social Security or credit card numbers unnecessarily.

“It’s always best to use the buddy system, to go with a group of people and always pay attention and be aware of your surroundings,” Shelton said.

Shelton said shoppers should remember to take precautions even when they arrive home.

“Be careful when bringing items inside your house. Again, don’t leave any valuables in front of open windows,” Shelton said. “So much of theft and those types of crimes are a matter of the person having the opportunity to steal property from others. Don’t open yourself up to giving someone the opportunity.”

Here are some other safety tips for consumers from the National Crime Prevention Council:

▪ Do not buy more than you can carry. Plan ahead by taking a friend with you or ask a store employee to help you carry your packages to the car.

▪ Shop online with companies you know and trust. Check a company’s background if you are not familiar with it. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

▪ Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmations from your online purchases. Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in.

▪ Consider alternate options to pay for your merchandise, such as one-time or multiuse disposable credit cards or money orders, at online stores and auction sites.

▪ Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information.

▪ Deter pickpockets. Carry your purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket.

▪ Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.

▪ Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or, if possible, take them directly home.

▪ Tell a security guard or store employee if you see an unattended bag or package. The same applies if you are using mass transit.

▪ If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you get separated. Select a central meeting place and make sure they know they can ask mall personnel or store security employees if they need help.

This story was originally published November 26, 2014 at 4:42 PM with the headline "Merced police urge holiday shoppers to take precautions."