Headed out to Walmart, Target, Kohl's, Best Buy, Kmart and others Thanksgiving night into Black Friday? If so you need to be smart and aware of what's going on around you.
Fights, crime and random acts of stupidity are rampant during this shopping event.
Seriously I would say stay home to avoid the mess but if you're bent on getting out in it or you know some one who is, then read over these safety tips:
1. Ladies carry a wristlet, men put your wallet in your front pocket - Don't carry a big purse, leave it at home or in the trunk. Men move your wallet or money clip to the front pocket to avoid pick pockets.
2. Car safety - Make sure you have a portable jumper box with air compressor, AAA service, spare tire that's not flat, you've checked your fluids, full tank of gas, emergency kit in the car and flashlight. You don't want to break down, but if you do, you want to be prepared. Stay with your car and lock the doors if you do, someone will come looking for you.
3. Share your route - Make sure you leave your driving route, stores and possible detours with a relative or trusted friend. If you're not back by a certain time they will know to start checking on you.
4. Ask for an escort - No I'm talking about that kind of escort, I'm talking about the kind of escort that will walk with you to your car. If you're shopping alone ask for an associate to walk with you to your car. If no one is available wait until a group of folks leave and walk with them.
5. Clean out your car - That's right, don't keep anything in the glove box, console or back seat that you care about, including kids. (Just kidding. Wanted to see if anyone was reading.) Seriously, don't leave extra check books, cards, address labels, money, electronics, toys, wallets - anything in your car. It all looks tempting to a thief.
6. Don't talk to solicitors in the parking lot - Do you know some of the biggest scams happen in parking lots? That's right. Don't get played. Adults use children to beg for money, rides, presents, help etc. Don't fall for their tricks. Call the police immediately or walk inside a store and ask for the manager.
7. Leave the kids at home - This is going to sound harsh but there's absolutely nothing in this year's Black Friday ads worth getting if it involves taking the kids with you. I'm serious. The toys will be cheaper as you get closer to Christmas, PJs will be available during the day, electronics are always on sale. Just skip it. Save the hassle and stay home.
8. Charge your cell phone and take a charger & the plug with you - Dead phones suck. Dead phones when you're in a bind really suck. Take the phone and your charger, including the plug with you. Keep it in your pocket. You might need to find a plug in a store and stand there for a few minutes to get a boost. Don't walk around or drive with a dead phone.