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Holiday Shopping Safety Tips from the Bently Reserve

December 10th, 2009 By: Doug Hahn

With the shopping season in full swing here in San Francisco, we’d like to share some holiday safety tips with you. Areas like our own Union Square provide some of our city’s most fabulous shops — but amidst all the holiday bustle, distracted shoppers can prove easy prey for pickpockets and other thieves. Here are some tips to ensure that you and your loved ones stay safe this shopping season.

Protect Yourself

Share your shopping plans with someone you trust — it’s important that someone knows where you are at all times.
The more the merrier: shop with friends or family, especially after dark.
Avoid over-using your iPhone or iPod: these are some of the most popular items among thieves, and they can make you a target.
Dress casually and comfortably. And while we know you’ll want to look great while you shop, try not to wear excessive jewelry.
Be wary of ATM’s: only use machines that are both well-lighted and highly visible to passerby.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid talking on your cell phone and using other gadgets in public; these devices decrease your awareness.
Park your vehicle in a well-lighted area. When returning, keep your keys in hand and lock the doors once you’re inside.
If shopping with children, make sure they know what to do if they become separated from you.
If someone demands your purse or wallet, try to remember that those holiday goodies aren’t worth your life!

Protect Your Identity

Carry only what you can afford to lose. Don’t cary large amounts of cash, and never bring all your credit cards on a shopping excursion.
Travelers should avoid shopping with irreplaceable documents such as passports and drivers licenses; if traveling abroad, bring photocopies of all these documents in case they are lost or stolen.
Make sure you have a record of all your credit card numbers, so that you can quickly report them if stolen.
Double-check every credit card receipt at the store. When you get home, shred receipts that contain sensitive information.
Review your credit card statements to make sure there aren’t any unauthorized charges.

Protect your Possessions

When parking your car, stash any valuables in the trunk, glove box, or even under the seats. As the old adage goes: out of sight, out of mind!
As we said before, park your car in a well-lighted area, and try to avoid using parking garages late at night.
Men should keep their wallets in the front pocket, and women should keep their wallets hidden within their purse. Women should also carry the purse close to the body, and men should keep wallets in zippered pockets.
Never overload yourself with packages: this makes you a vulnerable target.

A Special Reminder to Our Friends Using the 240 Stockton Street Garage

Theft in this garage is known to increase during the holiday season. Please remember to keep your possessions out of sight (preferably in your trunk).
These Holiday caveats are a good reminder to keep your monthly parking cards out of site in your vehicle. We suggest keeping them in your wallet or purse – this item alone tempts individuals to break in, no matter what season!

The most important part of holiday safety is awareness: if you see something suspicious, say something. Be wary of strangers who approach you for any reason; the holidays are the busiest season for con men and other thieves. With a little common sense and some preventative measures, you’ll have a great time shopping for friends and family!

About the Author

Doug Hahn

Douglas Hahn is a copywriter, creative writer, and avid reader. He’s been working in the industry for nearly a decade, and wants to see the world become a greener place.

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