By BECKY KISER
Hays Post
The Hays Police Department is encouraging residents to "Shop Local" for the holiday gift buying season.
Not only will you help support the local economy, you'll also be "familiar with great businesses in a great community which has a low crime rate," points out Don Scheibler, police chief.
"Shoppers are familiar with the [Hays] surroundings. If you go into a bigger city, things can get trickier in a hurry," he said.
As you do your shopping, put the packages and gift bags in the vehicle trunk or conceal them with a blanket or other object.
"Don't leave those items visible in the car. That just encourages people to break out the glass and steal your packages," Scheibler warned.
If you shop at night, bring someone with you. If you're alone, park as close to the store as you can in a well-lit area.
Don't carry a lot of cash. Instead, use debit and credit cards or even checks to make purchases.
Scheibler urges you to notify your credit card company immediately if your card is lost, stolen or is misused.
"[Thieves] can do a lot of damage with your credit card in a very short period of time. If you've lost it or see suspicious charges on there, make sure you report that immediately."
Be aware of your surroundings when shopping.
"Don't be walking across a parking lot while texting or talking on your phone and be aware of people approaching you." If you see something suspicious, report it to police or store personnel.
Be extra cautious at ATMs.
"Someone sees you there, they know you're getting cash. If you do use an ATM, be sure it's in a highly populated area, and again, be aware of your surroundings."
Don't leave your purse or wallet unattended.
The chief says Hays police often receive theft reports because people place their wallet or purse in a shopping cart, and then walk up and down aisles - without the cart - as they look for items.
"If you leave your purse unattended," Scheibler warns, "you're leaving yourself open for a theft."