NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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KIRKLAND LAKE - With the holiday season quickly approaching, stores and parking lots will have an increase flow of shoppers on a mission.
Unfortunately this can also provide a very prosperous opportunity for thieves.
The Ontario Provincial Police remind you to keep these safety tips in mind while shopping in downtown stores, shopping malls and parking lots.
- Carry a minimum amount of cash.
- Park in a well lit area of the parking lot.
- When using your convenience card, do not expose your PIN number.
- Do not put your purse or wallet in a shopping cart. Keep your purse close to your body and zipped closed at all times. Never leave your purse unattended.
- Do not leave purchased items unattended.
- Try not to overload yourself with parcels, so that it is difficult to walk or to carry them.
- When returning to your parked vehicle, be sure to walk directly to your vehicle with keys in hand, so that you are able to unlock your vehicle quickly. Be aware of your surroundings and other people in the area of your vehicle.
- When at your vehicle do not leave your purse on the seat of your car or in the cart while you load groceries or parcels.
- Be sure to place parcels in the trunk of your car or out of sight.
- Once inside, lock your vehicle’s doors.
“These tips are aimed at heightening awareness about what you can do to help reduce the risks to you from being victimized”, states Kirkland Lake OPP Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Rick Witty.
Crime Prevention…It’s everyone’s business.
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