So, theres all this info here about people stealing directly from stores. What happens when those same types take from you? There are a few ways to make sure you’re not a victim too.
Park as close to the doors of a store as you can.
Criminals are opportunists. The more people around you the better.
Park in well lit areas.
The same as before, as well you will be better able to see others in the area.
If your car is broken into, don’t touch anything!
Many times they will try for finger prints to ID the theif. Your prints won’t help that.
Keep your car doors locked even when you’re driving.
Most cars now do this anyway. If they don’t, get into the habit.
Keep your purse on the passenger side floor board.
Only while you’re driving silly! This way its out of sight if your windows happen to be down.
Keep your vehicle locked and windows closed when unattended.
If your vehicle isn’t locked, insurance will not cover any damage received from someone trying to break into it.
Do not leave paid for merchandise unattended in a store. Even if you’re just a few feet away.
You’re giving someone the chance to take your bags and run. If you have too many bags to pay attention to; make a trip to your car to put them in the trunk.
If you see someone shoplifting, report it to an employee.
If you see them, they may see you. You may get targeted if they don’t get stopped. Besides the fact that they are committing a crime that everyone pays for.
Use a small coin purse for your license and 2-3 necessary credit cards. Put it in an inside pocket of your shirt/coat. Leave other cards at home.
This way if someone grabs your purse, all they get is maybe a phone and a brush. Your important ID card and credit cards are out of sight.
Don’t use your cell phone in stores.
You’re going to be distracted and may not realize someone is trying to pilfer your purse or pockets. Also someone maybe following you. Would you know if you’re deep in conversation? Put your phone on silent when shopping.
If you do get robbed of your purse, throw it behind the other person and run the other way.
If you kept your important cards out of it, all they get is junk anyway. They will go running for it and you’ll get away.
DO NOT put your purse in any shopping cart. Keep it on you. Always.
This shouldn’t have to be said, but I see it often. Seriously, at that point you’re asking for it.
If you have unruly children that must go with you, secure them in a cart or stroller.
A child can be snatched in mere seconds. Adam Walsh disappeared within seconds from a busy mall in the early 80’s.
If you’re uncomfortable walking across a parking lot at night alone, ask for assistance.
Most stores will gladly have someone go with you. Even a regular employee will do.
If you’re getting followed INSIDE a store, tell someone!
Unless you’re shoplifting of course. Many times people start getting targeted while in a store. Tell an employee ASAP and stay with that employee while security gets called.
When returning to your car, put your purse in first, then lock the cabin of the car. Then put purchases in the trunk.
That way, if you get approached from behind you won’t look like you have anything.
As soon as you get back in your car, lock the doors immediately.
Car jackings happen because people DON’T do this.
If you see someone in your car before you get in, RUN the other way!
Avert a disaster and call 911.
If you’re car jacked, do not leave the store parking lot. Wreck your car ASAP.
If you leave the property, chances of you making the situation out alive are slim to none. The air bags will usually save you from serious harm leaving anyone in the back unprotected. You will want to hit something hard enough to disable the vehicle and bring attention to you.
Always be aware of people in your area. Even if they seem to go the other direction.
Being more aware may give you ample reaction time should something go wrong.
Keep your hands on your keys while in any parking lot.
See below as to why!
Use your cars panic alarm if you have to.
It is there for a reason.
If you get in your car and see anything stuck to any windows, don’t get out to get it.
Drive away and remove it at home. Some criminals do this so they can rob you in parking lots.
If you think you’re getting followed, DO NOT DRIVE HOME!
Instead drive to the nearest police station.
If you’re getting pulled over by a police vehicle that doesn’t seem legit, keep driving to the nearest police station.
You will not get in trouble. Many have impersonated police officers on desolate country roads to rape or kill unsuspecting women. If you have no idea where you are, just drive to a well lit gas station. You want people to see you in this case.
If you come home to find your house has been broken into, DON’T go in.
Call 911.
If you hear strange noises of any kind at night outside, call 911.
Crying babies, voices, etc. Does not matter. If someone shouldn’t be outside your home just call.
If you notice any suspicious activity in your neighborhood like drug dealing etc…report it.
Most places have anonymous ways to report that. That is if you aren’t comfortable doing it in person. If you don’t, you may have criminals hanging out in your area. That is just asking for break-ins and the like.
Walmart parking lots are dangerous. Try not to go at night if possible.
There have been many abductions and robberies from these stores. The cameras outside many times are not monitored. They are there is case anything happens so later the tapes can be reviewed. Remember that.
Safety is truly in your hands. You have to protect yourself first. You have to be vigilant first.
Shoplifting Kills Your Future 