Tis The Season To Be Mindful

(KINCARDINE, ON.) – With slightly over one month till Christmas, the OPP’s Crime Prevention Section is reminding all shoppers venturing out into crowded shopping centres to be “mindful and alert” to would be criminal activity.

Would-be- Grinches … aka, “thieves” prey on unsuspecting shoppers who leave themselves open and vulnerable targets. Here are a few Crime Prevention tactics to help reduce or stop those Grinches from success;

o Carry minimum amounts of cash on your person at any given time.
o Park in well lit parking areas or areas where there is an abundant number of people around.
o Keep your Personal Identification Number (PIN) hidden when using a convenience card.
o Never leave your purchased items unattended while shopping for other items.
o Never leave your purse/wallet/vehicle keys unattended in a shopping cart.
o Always put purchased items in your vehicle trunk or cover them up out of sight.
o Always lock your vehicle.
o Never leave your purse/wallet in plain view inside your car even if it the vehicle is locked.
o Those with purses, always strap them close to your body, with the purse zipped shut.
o When walking to your vehicle keep your keys in your hand to allow quick entry to your vehicle.
o Ask for assistance from store staff in carrying multiple parcels to your vehicle.
o When possible, always shop with a friend/companion. It’s safer and can be more fun!

Inspector Tony Cristilli, Manager of Criminal Operations for the OPP in South Western Ontario reminds us that “Crime Prevention doesn’t happen by accident! It’s the best way to reduce criminal activity by lessening our vulnerabilities and sending a very clear message to would-be-thieves that you are not a target to be contended with.”

The OPP remains hopeful that everyone will have a great Festive Season, look out for each other and drive sober and safely to and from their destinations.

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