SAPS ready for Black Friday madness

Brooklyn police in Pretoria have pulled out all the stops to ensure that there are maximum security measures in place this Friday, Rekord East reports.

This is according to police spokesperson Captain Colette Weilbach who said they would be collaborating with various private security companies as they expected thousands of shoppers to take advantage of the Black Friday deals on offer at the malls.

Weilbach urged shoppers to remain vigilant even though authorities would maintain a high visibility to deter crime.

“Shoppers must take extra precautions to protect themselves and their belongings during the upcoming Black Friday shopping spree.”

Weilbach said this would provide shoppers with a safe, pleasant shopping experience.

Shoppers can assist the SAPS by taking the following precautions:

· Do not flash large amounts of cash when paying for merchandise, rather make card payments.

· Avoid isolated ATMs. If you are distracted by someone while you are attempting to make a transaction, cancel your transaction immediately.

· Avoid answering or using your cellphone in public.

· Do not leave handbags unattended in shopping trolleys or under a chair at restaurants. Valuables such as handbags, purses and cellphones must remain in your direct control always.

· Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially for persons that are observing or following you. Robbers target shoppers with flashy jewellery, expensive watches and other items before robbing them on their way home.

· Store shopping bags and other valuables out of sight, in the boot of a vehicle.

· Do not assume your vehicle is locked because you pressed a button on a remote control, also physically check the door is locked.

Drivers are requested to park intelligently. Criminals are deterred when vehicles are parked in spots that are clearly visible to the public eye. The more people that can see your vehicle, the less likely it is that someone is going to have time to break into your vehicle – without raising any suspicions.

· Drivers must make a mental note of where they parked their vehicles. It sometimes happens that shoppers forget where they parked their vehicles.

· Walk away from any heated argument over sale items. Do not stay for a fight “to prove something,” this will only demonstrate poor judgement.

· Do not fall prey to tricksters who promise additional discounts on sale items at retail shops.

· Report any suspicious persons or circumstances to the centre or store manager or an on-duty security officer immediately. Keep all purses and bags closed.