Tampa Police Chief Kicks Off Holiday Shopping With Safety Tips

TAMPA, FL — As the holiday shopping season approaches, the Tampa Police Department is encouraging residents to shop safely.

With an increase in traffic and shoppers on the roads and in stores, specialty teams of officers will patrol malls and shopping centers to ensure a safe holiday season.

On Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 10 a.m., Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw was at WestShore Plaza at 250 WestShore Plaza to discuss the Tampa Police Department's enforcement efforts to prevent thefts this holiday shopping season.

Officers will be patrolling shopping areas on motorcycle, on foot, on horseback and in patrol cars throughout the holiday season.

l carswho will be patrolling shopping areas throughout the city.

This operation also provides an opportunity for officers to educate shoppers about the dangers of leaving packages and valuables in their vehicles.

A few holiday shopping safety tips include:

• Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you. If you see people "hanging around" parking garages, parking lots or the outside of stores, avoid the area. Notify the police or security department.
• If possible, shop before dark. Coordinate shopping trips with a friend if you plan to be out late. Always park your car in a well-lit area.
• Lock your car doors and windows even if you are only gone for a few minutes.
• Keep packages and other valuables out of public view, preferably locked in the trunk.
• Park near streetlights if possible and have your keys in hand when you return to your car. Always check the interior of your car before you unlock the door to get in.
• Be extra careful with purses and wallets. Carry a purse under your arm with the strap across your body. Keep a wallet in the front pants pocket or inside jacket pocket.
• Teach your children to go to a store clerk or security guard and ask for help if they should become separated in a store or shopping mall. They should never go into a parking lot alone.
• As always, if you see something, say something. Report any suspicious activity to store personnel or police immediately.