Tips to protect yourself from crime in malls

THE Pavilion Shopping Centre shared ten safety tips to ensure customers don’t become victims of petty criminals who are always on the lookout for opportunities to pick pockets or steal cellphones.

1. Be aware. Walk with your head up and shoulders back and keep an eye on your surroundings. Try not to be distracted while chatting to fellow shoppers, talking on your cellphone or browsing in shops. Observe those around you, and if you see suspicious behaviour, report it to security staff within shops or mall security staff immediately.

2. Don’t provide a pocket for a pick-pocket. If you are carrying valuables such as a wallet or a cellphone, don’t use your back pocket as this is an easy target. If you have a wallet in a side pocket or jacket pocket, make sure that it is not visible and try not to continually touch your pocket as this will draw attention to the fact that it is there.

3. Ensure that your handbag is safe. Hold it securely under your arm and make sure that zips and pockets are closed.

4. Place valuables in the inside pockets of handbags rather than in outside pockets, from which it is easy to remove a cellphone or wallet.

5. Do not rummage through a purse or wallet or count money in public. When paying at a till point, put notes and coins as well as cards in your purse and then place it in a safe place before walking away.

6. Don’t carry too many parcels. If your hands are occupied by too many packages you are unable to ensure that the handbag dangling over your shoulder is safe or stop someone from pick-pocketing. Rather place extra parcels in the boot of your car and then return to the mall to continue shopping.

7. Do not leave handbags or parcels unattended in shopping trolleys.

8. At ATMs, be aware of those standing behind you or watching you draw cash. Also, protect your pin when entering it into an ATM.

9. Make sure that valuables are safe while in restaurants or the food court. Do not place handbags at your feet or hook them over the back of a chair. Do not leave cellphones on the table or be distracted by concentrating on messaging or surfing the net. Always keep cards within your sight when paying.

10. Be cautious when using restrooms, ensuring that valuables are out of reach in cubicles and that your handbag is not left on a counter or on a basin unattended.