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LEAPS CHAPTER
EL PASO,
TEXAS
With the holidays behind us, the El Paso Police Department would like to remind everyone to take precaution when out and about.
Please exercise basic common sense crime prevention and remember to be aware and alert while returning from holiday trips and going to the local shopping centers and malls for gift returns and exchanges. Many unfortunate shoppers this past holiday season were victims of crime because they failed to take necessary precautions, making them easy targets for thieves.
Shopping:
First and foremost, when shopping, always exercise personal safety. Always look around your surroundings and be aware of individuals loitering in areas where they should not be and be aware of your location. Always plan ahead and try to park in an area that will be well lit when you leave or be sure to ask a security guard/store clerk to escort you to your vehicle if you don’t feel safe.
• Shop before dark if possible. Possibly coordinate shopping trips with a friend and never park in an unlit lot or area, no matter how convenient it is.
• Lock all packages in your vehicle’s trunk. Keep your vehicle’s doors locked and windows closed.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with a check, credit card, or debit card when possible.
• To discourage purse-snatchers, don’t overburden yourself with packages. Have your purchases delivered whenever practical.
• Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse under your arm and keep wallets in an inside jacket pocket, not a back trouser pocket.
• Teach children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if you become separated. They should never go into a parking lot alone.
Pickpockets:
• Pickpockets like to take advantage of crowds in stores, on the street and on public transportation. Many work in teams with one distracting the victim while the other does the actual pick-pocketing.
• Beware of anyone who jostles you. It may be accidental, but then again, it may not. For women who carry a purse, one that has a flap which folds over the opening and fastens at the bottom is preferable to one that can be opened simply by turning a clasp at the top.
• Men who carry wallets or a money clip should keep them in inner or side pockets, rather than rear trouser pockets.
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