The holiday season, with its festivities and celebrations, also brings a heightened need for awareness to avoid becoming a victim of crime. As streets and stores become bustling with holiday shoppers, criminals often take advantage of the distractions and increased opportunities to commit theft, fraud, and other offenses.
Understanding Situational Awareness
Situational awareness involves being cognizant of your environment and understanding the potential risks in your immediate surroundings. It’s about recognizing when something seems out of place or potentially threatening and taking action to avoid danger.
- Minimize Distractions: Stay off your phone when walking in public. A distracted person is an easy target. For example, if you’re texting while walking to your car in a shopping mall parking lot, you might not notice someone following you.
- Observe Your Surroundings: Make it a habit to scan your environment. Look for suspicious behavior or individuals who seem out of place. For instance, if you notice someone loitering near your parked car, it’s better to return to a safe, public place and seek assistance.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Don’t ignore gut feelings. An example could be feeling uneasy about a stranger striking up a conversation at an ATM – it’s okay to end the interaction and leave.
- Avoid Predictable Routines: During the holidays, try to vary your shopping times and routes. Predictable patterns can make you an easier target. For example, shopping at different times or using different entrances can reduce your risk.
- Stay in Well-Lit, Busy Areas: Avoid shortcuts through dark or isolated areas. Stick to well-lit and populated paths, especially when carrying shopping bags or valuables.
- Keep Personal Belongings Secure: Hold purses or bags close to your body. In crowded areas, thieves often slash bags or pickpocket. Using a crossbody bag and keeping it in front of you can deter such attempts. Always be sure to place your shopping bags and valuables in a secure location that is out of sight.
- Use Technology Wisely: Share your location with trusted family or friends when going out for holiday activities, especially at night.
During the holiday season, while the spirit of joy and giving fills the air, it’s essential to remain vigilant and aware. Enhancing your awareness is not about living in fear but about being smart and proactive in your safety. Remember, awareness is the key to prevention. Stay alert, stay safe, and have a wonderful holiday season.