County of Onslow issued the following announcement on Nov. 27.
The Onslow County Sheriff's Office is encouraging shoppers to stay vigilant this holiday season and to please follow these safety tips:
A single shopper is too frequently a target for theft. Always shop with a friend or relative, if you can.
When going shopping, tell someone where you are going and what time to expect you to return. Also, make sure they know what you are wearing, as well as the type of vehicle you are driving.
Shop during daylight hours. If you shop at night, park your vehicle in a well-lit area.
Dress casually and comfortably and avoid wearing expensive jewelry. If carrying cash, keep it in your front pocket rather than in a purse or wallet. This makes it much more difficult for a pickpocket to remove. Also, store car keys in your pants or jacket pocket. If your purse/wallet is stolen, you will still be able to drive home.
Pay careful attention to your surroundings and avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps. (Situational awareness)
When returning to your vehicle, look around it and in the back seat. Be aware of strangers approaching you for any reason. Have your car keys in your hand to avoid spending unnecessary time unprotected from the security of your vehicle.
If you feel uneasy returning to your vehicle alone, find a security guard or a trusted person and ask them to walk you to your car.
Original source can be found here.
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