Do’s and don’ts for shopping this festive season

It is the time of year when the shops are bound to be busier than usual as people prepare for the holidays. Mike Kidson, Managing Director of ADT Northern Region, urges shoppers to be cautious when they visit malls in the coming weeks and to keep their wits, and belongings, about them.

“Try to carry as little as possible in your handbag or pockets and rather leave unnecessary bank or store cards and large amounts of cash at home,” Kidson suggests. A packed clothing store or supermarket is the prime hunting-ground for a pick-pocket or bag-snatcher. And, never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley. If you don’t use a bag or do not take one along, keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or trousers.”

Drawing money at an ATM also needs to be done with care. Kidson advises the following:

• If you do need to draw money at an ATM, use a machine in a busy area

• Be aware of anyone standing nearby and don’t accept help from strangers when entering your PIN number

• Put your money in your purse or wallet before you walk away from the ATM, and

• If you think someone has followed you from the machine, walk into the nearest shop or up to a mall security guard

Your safety outside the mall is just as important as it is inside, he adds. “Before you exit the mall, have your keys ready so that no time is wasted to get your purchases and yourself into your car. This also means that you’ll be able to hold onto your handbag as you walk. If someone does try to snatch your handbag, let it go. Do not resist or fight back,” he advises.

Finally, if you are using public transport, Kidson suggests that you try to complete your shopping earlier rather than later. “It is a good idea to check the transport timetable ahead of your trip to the shops so that you don’t have to wait too long at a bus stop or train station.