Be Careful In Parking Lots During Holidays

Paul Hinman, crime prevention practitioner with the Highlands County Sheriff's Office, received an alert from Pinellas County about threats toward seniors in shopping center parking lots.

The perpetrator would watch for a senior to pull into the lot and then go into the store. Then, the intruder would let the air out of the victim's tires. Once the shopper returned to his or her car, the perpetrator would offer to change the tire for $10 or $15, according to Hinman.

"We've not had any reports of that happening," in Highlands County, he said.

Of course, there are still other concerns for shoppers this holiday season, and area law enforcement are offering plenty of safety tips.

"When they're shopping, put their goods in the trunk so they're not visible," said Sebring Police Cmdr. Steve Carr.

Hinman added that some customers will place a number of packages in the back seat of their vehicle before returning to the stores for additional shopping. Those new purchases may be enticing for a thief out scouting the parking lots.

Women should refrain from leaving purses unattended on store counters, in dressing rooms or in a shopping cart's child's seat, according to Hinman. Also, large amounts of cash should never be displayed.

Capt. Paul Blackman, with the HCSO, said women should always shop in pairs and not go out into a parking lot alone after dark. It is also advised to always have car keys in hand when approaching one's vehicle or home.

During the holiday season, Blackman said extra patrols will be set up at Lakeshore Mall and the Shops at Shelby Crossing to help keep residents safe.

Shopping center parking lots, however, are not the only place residents could be targeted over the holidays.

"Using ATMs, be aware of your surroundings," Carr advised.

Blackman said motorists should also be careful at gas stations, as thieves may target those with unlocked doors who are busy filling up their cars. He recommends always locking your door, no matter how long you are away from your vehicle.

Scams can even continue once a person returns home, according to Hinman.

"This is the season of giving and the telephone solicitors are tugging at your heartstrings getting you to donate money to a charity," he said.

While some calls are legitimate, Hinman said there are those that are complete scams.

"There's all kinds of scams going on out there and it seems that a new one pops up every day," he said.