With the start of the holiday shopping season, Sheriff Tim Bailey wants all Marion county citizens and visitors to have a safe and enjoyable shopping experience. “With the increase in pedestrian and vehicle traffic in our shopping areas, the public needs to be extra cautious and more aware of their surroundings. With this increase in activity, criminals could potentially use it as a distraction to commit crimes," Sheriff Bailey said.

Sheriff Bailey recommends the following Holiday Safety Tips:

• Stay alert and be aware of what’s going on around you. Don’t look like victim.
• Try to shop with a friend or relatives as there is safety in numbers.
• Always park where there is plenty of light around your car and to the store entrance.
• Before going into a store look inside your vehicle and make sure you can’t see anything of value that could be potentially stolen.
• Use your trunk to store packages so thieves can’t see what you have purchased.
• Keep your car locked at all times and have your keys in your hand before you go to your car.
• Don’t leave your purse unattended (even for a few seconds) in your cart.
• Don’t dangle your purse from your shoulder. Instead put the strap over your head so it is more difficult to grab and is kept closer to your body.
• Don’t carry large amounts of money at one time. Carry enough for what you need to buy and keep it in a front pocket to deter pickpockets or purse thieves.
• Only carry one or two credit cards at a time and make sure you secure them after use.

Sheriff Bailey reminds everyone that if you are a victim of crime to contact law enforcement immediately. CLICK HERE for a complete list of Holiday Safety Tips.