12 Back-To-School Safety Shopping Tips For Moms and Dads

Back to School Shopping

Free paper bun! It’s the last weekend before the first official week of the new school year.  And while some of us started our back to school shopping the minute school ended for the holidays, this may be the busiest shopping weekend of the summer.  Parents will be out in droves, but so will pickpockets and other petty criminals.

So, to keep you and your children safe while out and about shopping this weekend, please keep in mind these 12 important tips.

While You’re Shopping

1) Use your debit or credit card to make your purchases, to avoid carrying a large amount of cash.

2) If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other.

3) Have your children leave their electronic devices for example games and Tablets at home.  Learn how to keep these devices safe.

4) Moms, deter pickpockets by:

  • Keeping your handbag closed.
  • Carrying your handbag over your shoulder, but place it slightly to the front of your body.
  • Not putting your handbag in your shopping trolley.  Instead, keep it over your shoulder at all times.
  • Keep your keys and cell phone in your pocket so that if your handbag is stolen you can still call for help and get home.

5) Dads, deter pickpockets by carrying your wallet in your front pocket.

6) Stay off your cell phone while shopping so you can stay alert.

Around Your Car

7) Be aware of your surroundings while in shopping plazas and parking lots.

8) Park in well-lit areas if you are shopping in the evening.

9) Have your keys in hand when approaching your car.

10) Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.

11) To reduce the chances of a thief breaking your car window and stealing your purchases, don’t leave them visible in your car.  Put them in the trunk.

12) Be aware of any vehicles that follow you home.  If you notice anything out of the ordinary, do not get out of your car. Instead, continue driving to the nearest police station.

Practice these simple tips and minimise your chances of being the victim of a crime this weekend.  Did we miss any tips?  How do you stay safe while out shopping?  Let us know in the “Leave a Reply” section below.