MPD Officers are patrolling high traffic areas throughout Memphis during the holidays. Several MPD Skycops have been placed at shopping centers to help keep an eye out for potential criminal behavior. However, please do not get a false sense of security or become careless while doing last minute shopping. We must still remain aware of our surroundings and watch out for each other. Call MPD if any suspicious activity is seen- better safe than sorry! Holiday Shopping Safety Tips As the holiday shopping season is upon us, please take time to ensure you have a safe and happy holiday season. As you find time to shop, please be mindful of the following safety tips: Be aware of your surroundings. Look for suspicious persons, etc. when you are in any area. Dont park near vehicles that are occupied with people who appear nervous or remain in their vehicle for a long period of time. Watch for suspicious behavior such as an individual roaming throughout the parking lot or someone who appears to be looking into vehicles that do not belong to them. Remember where you parked your car. While this may sound elementary, many shopping areas are spread out over large areas. Being unable to locate a car can cause you undue confusion and stress that may present you as a better target to a criminal. If shopping late in the day or after dark, park in an area that is well lighted. Keep in mind, if you are shopping at a mall, the time the store closes from which you enter the mall, as some stores close earlier than others. This may keep you from having to walk unnecessary distances to you car if you find the store has closed earlier than you expected. Shop in pairs at the very least. Take a friend or family member shopping with you. There is something to be said for safety in numbers. As you return to your car, make sure to keep your car key in your hand. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with checks, credit, charge or debit cards. Carry cash and wallets in a front pocket to reduce your chances of having your pocket picked. Dont leave car phones, purses, CD cases, or any other item of value in your parked car where they can be seen. Always conceal these items- Stow it dont show it! Dont leave purchased merchandise in your parked car where it can be seen. Conceal these items also. If any suspicious activity is seen please contact MPD at 545-COPS. If it is an emergency dial 911.
Posted on: Tue, 16 Dec 2014 14:47:13 +0000