HOUSTON – During the holiday season, experts have recommended that shoppers be extra aware while they are out and about shopping in stores throughout the city.
For the past few years, Houston area malls have routinely seen crime cases in crease around this time of year against shoppers.
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Oftentimes, suspects will lurk on those who are walking through the store while sniffing out their purchases before stealing the items.
Also, there have even been situations where a robber will follow someone all the way to their house from the store and violently steal their belongings.
This holiday season, you’ll want to remember a few tips and tricks to help stay safe and aware.
1) At some Houston area shopping malls, like The Galleria and Memorial City Mall you can use valet parking instead of walking through the parking lot with your bags. If you make a large purchase, some stores also have employees who will walk you to your vehicle.
If you need an escort to your car at The Galleria, call their security directly at (713) 877-9190. Contact a police escort at Memorial City by calling (713) 877-9190.
2) Don’t shop at night time. Its easy to become a victim of a crime at night time when its hard to focus on your surroundings.
3) Women, if possible, carry a fake purse while keeping your important belongings, like your wallet, phone, and keys, on your person. If a robber approaches you and fights for your bag, let them take it, knowing that all your true important items are secured in another location.
4) Travel with a pack. Memorial City Mall reminds shoppers on their website that walking with a group of people is better than walking by yourself, which would easily make you a target.
5) If you suspect someone is following you or trailing your car, trying to follow you home, go to a police substation instead.