The festive season is around the corner and shopping centres are already crowded with families rushing to buy gifts. Sadly, crime increases during this time of the year so it is important to take the necessary steps to keep you and your family safe during shopping trips. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind before you hit the shops this festive season:
- Lock your car when you park at the shopping centre
Make sure that your car is locked when you park at a shopping centre. Double-check to ensure that all the doors are locked before you enter the shops and make sure that you take all personal possessions with you. Point out security guards, so your children know where to get help if they get lost.
- Wear your mask, practise social distancing and apply hygiene practices.
Keep a mask in your car and in your handbag or pocket. Always sanitize your hands especially after shopping.
- Do not lean on the escalator handrail.
Ensure that your children do not lean on the escalator. The excess weight can slow the stairway down and throw passengers off balance. Lift toddlers on and off the step – shoes and boots with soft rubber soles have been known to slip into cracks between steps and the escalator wall.
- Do not leave your bag unattended, when you stop for a bite or something to drink.
Do not leave your shopping bags or your handbag on the floor or the chair behind you. Rather put them under the table by your feet. It only takes seconds for someone to walk past and grab your handbag or newly bought gifts.
- When you return to your car, be cautious of your surroundings.
If you suspect that you are being followed, do not drive directly home but go to the nearest police station.Do not place your parcels on the back seat of the car – place them in the boot. You do not want to become the victim of a smash and grab.
- The more you use the Iemas Purchase card the more reward you can earn:
Use your Iemas Purchase Card for all of your festive season shopping – you earn rewards every time you shop. You can even increase your rewards with extra cards for your partner and/or family members at no monthly cost. You can shop at more than 12,000 Iemas approved retailers. Get your Iemas purchase card to keep your fridge and wardrobe full by calling us on 0861 043 627 or simply visit www.iemas.co.za to apply for purchase card online. Make sure that you are adequately insured against the unexpected by contacting Iemas Insurance Brokers, (FSP 47563), wholly owned subsidiary of Iemas Financial Services: www.iemasinsurancebrokers.co.za | 0860 102 383.
Source: https://randburgsun.co.za/422358/safety-tips-for-shopping-during-the-festive-season/