It is #BlackFriday time once again and the Germiston SAPS are urging the community to be safe and aware of their surroundings at all times.
“While many people will be out bargain-hunting and sale-surfing, the SAPS urges shoppers to practice safety and be vigilant at all times,” said Const Maxwell Mabunda, the communications officer for the Germiston SAPS.
“Thieves take advantage of this busy season, hoping to turn unaware shoppers into victims of crime.
“Personal safety is a matter of shared responsibility between authorities and members of the public.”
ALSO READ: Paying more than you bargained for on Black Friday
To ensure that your shopping experience is a safe and happy one the SAPS ask the community to heed these safety tips:
• Be vigilant at all times.
• Be aware of your surroundings, remembering that with the good bargains #BlackFriday may come thieves and scammers.
• Keep your money and valuables safe and out of sight.
When it comes to #mallsafety the SAPS offer the following tips:
• Be vigilant when in congested shops or shopping aisles where you cannot even walk properly, as pick pockets may strike.
• Avoid displaying valuables where criminals can see them.
• Keep your handbag with you, remembering to keep it closed or zipped.
• Never leave your valuables unattended.
• Keep your cellphone with you at all times, do not leave it unattended.
• Carry your wallet in the front pocket of your trousers – never in the rear pocket of your trousers.
• Credit card transactions must be processed in your presence.
ALSO READ: 5 hacks to survive and thrive on Black Friday
“If you are shopping with children, plan ahead, communicate a plan with clear instructions to your children, in case you get separated from each other,” said Mabunda.
When shopping with children heed these safety tips:
• Identify a central, safe meeting place.
• Teach your child and show them the trusted mall personnel or store security employees – should they need help.
• Write down your mobile number on the top of their hand or on a wrist band.
“Keep up-to-date photos and accurate descriptions of your child, should they get separated from you, this information can assist mall security and police in locating your child speedily,” said Mabunda.
Have a story?
Contact the newsroom by emailing: Melissa Hart (Editor) germistoncitynews@caxton.co.za, Leigh Hodgson (News Editor) leighh@caxton.co.za or Ashley Kiley (Journalist) ashleyk@caxton.co.za.
Also follow us on:
