Jim Gaudet(Hour 1c) Jim Gaudet put on his Public Safety hat to share several tips that will help keep you safe this holiday shopping season.

Jim Gaudet’s Holiday Safety Tips

Holiday Safety Tips    

(Or how NOT to let the Grinch Steal your Christmas)

  • Don’t leave packages and purchases left out in plain view in your vehicle.
  • If you bring purchases out to your vehicle and are returning into the mall for more shopping, move your car to another location
  • Have your keys with you in your hand as you approach your vehicle
  • Don’t carry so much that you don’t have a hand free, and check inside your car before you open the door(s)
  • When IN the store, wait until asked before taking out your credit card or check book. ‘Tis the season for ”Shoulder surfing” credit card or banking  information
  • If you shop online, consider parcels delivered to your office or business; if not, try and make arrangements to have someone home at the house or a neighbor pick them up
  • If you shop online, make sure you do so from a “secured” website. This means you look for the “https” in the web address.  Even the padlock icon designating a “secure” website can be added to a bogus website.
  • The old adage that “it sound too good to be true” is true. Buy from local or familiar vendors, and question any deals or sales that sound too good to be true.
  • Remember that it is a hectic and crazy scene out there these days…not like those Currier & Ives depictions or old movies. Don’t be in a rush or wait until the last minute
  • For further information, contact your local law enforcement agency or go online to the National Crime Prevention Council ncpc.org or the local Better Business Bureau http://www.bbb.org/concord/migration/consumer-tips/2011/11/10-tips-to-keep-grinches-from-spoiling-your-holiday/
  • Have a safe and Merry Christmas from the Public Safety Anchor and friends at G-A-L.

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