After reading a number of articles about shopping safety, I ventured out this weekend prepared to get all my shopping done and stay out of harm’s way. I started out first thing in the morning, because shopping is less risky in daylight. I did not want to shop alone - you know safety in numbers, so my husband came too. Husbands make good shopping buddies because they will be both your bodyguard and your package carrier, leaving your hands safely free to browse the merchandise. Husband tip – keep them fed, they get less grumpy. I ditched the purse and put my wallet (only a couple of credit cards and a little cash) and phone in the inside pockets of my jacket. It was surprising to see a number of women leave their purses and kids in the shopping cart and walk away – not a good idea! Regrettably I have to admit I was not really aware of my surroundings, I guess I was too comfortable with my bodyguard husband. Although I was able to resist the urge to post my whereabouts, I made the mistake of talking on my phone and discussing my purchases while still in the mall.
Another tip I followed was keep your receipts separate from your purchases. I was surprised at the number of stores that ask if you want an email receipt. What a great idea, it is separate and you can keep a permanent record on your computer.
There were so many other tips to remember, like walk to your car with your keys ready, lock your valuables out of sight, immediately lock doors and move your vehicle to a new location. I think all of the safety tips were making me paranoid – what if I were mugged or if the presents were stolen from my car?
Luckily, the calm insurance agent in me took over. First, I have homeowners insurance, so my homeowners policy could provide coverage if I were robbed or provide coverage for theft of personal property from my vehicle. Yes, it would be subject to my deductible and any other policy limitations. (If you happen to live in an apartment, this is another good reason to carry Tenant’s/Renter’s Insurance.) Second, I did use my credit cards when making my purchases and theft protection is a benefit on some credit cards. Your insurance policy or terms and conditions of your credit card are the best source for coverage information.
Please share any other shopping safety tips with us or if you have any questions, call us at 734-462-9650.