Podcast

Shopping Safety Tips

The Franklin Police Department encourages citizens to be alert and cautious while shopping. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Avoid shopping alone - shop with a friend or a loved one.

• Shop in and around familiar areas that have security.

• Shop during the daytime, when possible.

• Park in well-lit areas when shopping at night and ask security to escort you to your vehicle.

• Lock your vehicle and keep valuables and packages out of sight in the trunk, never on a seat or in a glove box.

• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Wear purse strapped across your body. Don't carry your wallet in a loose jacket or loose pocket.

• Keep your hands free and avoid carrying an excessive number of packages. Have your vehicle key in hand and ready when walking to your car.

• Scan the area surrounding your vehicle both when you park and when you return to your vehicle. Visually check the back seat of your vehicle before opening the door and getting in.

• Immediately report suspicious persons and activities to police.

• Remember that many of the shopping areas in and around Franklin can be busy and congested. Allow yourself extra time to get into and out of them. If you can try to plan shopping trips with family and friends, the less cars going into and out of the malls the happier everyone will be!