With Holiday shopping coming up millions of us are flocking to the shopping centers to find that perfect gift for that perfect person. Tis the season to give and get and be with family, but it is also the biggest season for thieves and muggers.

photo by kuzdra

The Christmas holidays are when most people spend the largest amount of cash in the least amount of time. Here are some safety tips for you and your family when shopping. They are meant to help you be more alert to your surroundings.

1. The most important tip I can give is to avoid cash as much as possible. Bring credit cards instead. Nearly everywhere accepts cards now-a-days and this is safest thing you can do to avoid losing your money to pick-pockets or muggers. If, I would not wish this on anyone, you are a victim, not only can you cancel your credit cards right away but you have insurance on your cards covering theft. This can give you peace of mind for it is easier to hand over cards when being mugged than cash. Also, when you get home, make sure you count your money and cards to make sure everything is there.

If you need to go somewhere you know you will be needing cash, go there first. Do not travel the rest of the mall first to see if there is something better. I would say plan and compare before leaving the house.

2. Along the same line, avoid wearing expensive jewelry and clothing. Muggers, thieves and pick-pockets profile people. They know who has money and who has enough money to pick. Some of the tell signs for this are: expensive jewelry, expensive name brand clothes, name brand expensive bags etc. Avoid being profiled for your money. Besides, it is a lot better to dress down and comfortably.

3. Bringing your children with you? This is also the season where children go missing easily and quickly. Pay special attention to the little ones, or go to a store with a daycare. They will watch your child while you can shop without stress and without yelling “don’t touch that” at every second.

4. Go with someone or a group. Brining someone along will make the day that much more fun and give you an extra security feature. You will be less likely to be targeted when you are not alone.

5. Buy the “Big Stuff” online. Thinking of buying a new 52” plasma HDTV? How about a brand new computer system? Not only can you buy these things online, for cheaper sometimes, but most places can deliver. For free.

6. Always be aware of what is going on around you. You might notice that suspicious looking guy in following you around, or that group of people eyeing you. This will give you a heads up if in the event they advance on you.

7. Carry a cell phone. Have 911 plugged into memory so that if you do get caught in a sticky situation you will have it readily available. Also, give your children a cell phone with you number plugged into the memory. If you get separated it will be easier to track each other down.

8. Carrying. So, it’s the end of the day and you’ve accumulated a huge number of presents. You must now trek across the parking lot to get to you car giving anyone lurking in the shadows just enough time to grab and run. There are a couple of solutions here: park as close as possible and in a well lit area. If this was impossible, leave with a bunch of people going in the same direction. Finally, ask an employee to help you to your car.

The Holiday season is a hectic time of stress and joy. The previous tips are meant to help you keep safe and to keep your head on your shoulders. They are also meant to make you aware of what could happen and what to do if something were to happen.

Many people are victimized because they didn’t think that what they wore attracted the wrong people. Keep one step ahead and this Holiday Christmas season will be that much safer.