It is that time of the year when the shops tend to be busier than usual, as people prepare for the holidays.
Clive Humphrey, Managing Director of ADT Central Region, urged shoppers to be cautious when they visit malls in the coming weeks.“Try to carry as little as possible in your handbag and pockets, leave unnecessary bank or store cards and large amounts of cash at home,” Humphrey suggested. A packed clothing store or supermarket is where pick-pockets or bag-snatchers are on the look out for targets.
Never leave a handbag, purse or wallet in a trolley.
If you don’t use a bag, do not take one along; keep your wallet or purse in the front pocket of your jacket or pants.
Drawing money at an ATM needs to be done with caution.
Humphrey gave the following advice:
• When you 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
• Put your money in your purse or wallet before you walk away from the ATM
• If you think someone has followed you from the machine, walk into the nearest shop or go 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. If you are using public transport, Humphrey 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.”
Details: twitter.com/ADTSouth_Africa or www.adt.co.za
