Tis the season…for Trussville to become the shopping mecca.
With Black Friday actually beginning on Thursday this holiday season, shoppers from all over north Jefferson, St Clair and Blount counties and as far away as Gadsden will converge on Trussville in search of Christmas bargains.
Chief Don Sivley of the Trussville police department says his officers are ready to help shoppers have a safe experience.
“The checkout lines and traffic delays tend to put people on edge,” Sivley said. “I would just remind people to drive safely and be alert and courteous.”
TPD will be beefing up coverage in the area in anticipation of increased traffic from shoppers, with an eye on the major retail areas in town
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“We will have additional patrols in the shopping centers which will continue through Christmas,” Sivley said.
Here are some safety tips that may be helpful and keep you from becoming the victim of a crime during the holiday season.
- Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
- Dress casually and comfortably.
- Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
- Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
- Always carry your driver’s license or identification 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.
- Always lock your vehicle.
Source: LAPD Crime Prevention
