Written by Liliana Duque, Housekeeping Director.

For many people the last month of the year is all about getting ready for the holidays. From organizing family dinners to festively decorating the house, the holidays are bustling with activity. One part of these preparations and perhaps the most time consuming is shopping! The shopping season is also in full swing and our local retailers will be packed these last few weeks before Christmas. Here are some holiday safety tips you can take to help maintain your personal safety.

The safety and security of our members is a top priority at Golden Ocala. Here are some Holiday Safety Tips to help maintain your personal safety.

Shopping

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
• Dress casually and comfortably.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
• Always carry your Florida Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• Keep cash in your front pocket.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

Children

• If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter.
• Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you.
• Encourage your children to stay close to you at all times while shopping.
• Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.
• Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car.
• Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security. Encourage your children to trust their feelings and immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

These holiday safety tips were compiled in cooperation with the Crime Prevention Section. The safety and security of our members is a top priority at Golden Ocala. We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. For more information on Golden Ocala living, visit our real-estate blog.