Author: Jim Cox

During this holiday season, the Gahanna Division of Police asks citizens to be on guard and be vigilant. We want to make sure that everyone has a safe and happy holiday season. Keep in mind that the criminals will be shopping this holiday season too. Do not set yourself up to become one of their victims. Your Police Department would like to offer some basic steps that citizens can take to prevent and minimize the risk of becoming a victim.

• Before leaving your home, make sure your cell phone is charged and your car is in working condition.
• Let someone know where you are going and what time you may be returning.
  Shop with a friend, you are less of a target when you have someone with you.
  Keep all purses and bags zipped and snapped closed.
• Keep your cell phone on your person in the situation someone demands your purse.
  If you have to take a call or text message, do not let your guard down and get distracted while shopping.
• Do not carry your social security card or birth certificate in your wallet or purse.
  Carry only minimum amount of credit cards at one time.
• If using a shopping cart, try to secure your purse or bags with the child lock mechanism.
• Keep children secure in a stroller or shopping cart at all times. Do not allow your children to wander.
• Speak with your children about a plan if you were separated while shopping.
• Park in a well lit parking lot.
• Always lock your doors whether you are driving or not.
• Do not leave valuables in plain view in your car.
• Do not carry large amounts of merchandise at one time.
• Do not flash large amounts of cash when paying for merchandise.
• If using a debit card, keep the card close to your body so the card number will not be able to be photographed by a cell phone.
• If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, contact the police or the store security officer.
• Report any suspicious people to the store security, customer service or 911.
• Be aware of your surroundings. When you are in a building, know where your exits are located as well as how you will plan to escape if needed.
• When returning to your car, look under, in and around your car while approaching it.
• Be suspicious and aware by nature. If you get a gut feeling that something is not right, then act on your instinct.
• Be confident and look people in the eyes. If you do this you are more likely to dissuade an attacker from attacking you. You will be able to give identifying characteristics of the person.

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