QUINCY, ILL. -- Black Friday shoppers should be extra cautious this weekend. When gearing up for a full day of retail bliss, you need to be aware of your surroundings at all times.
"If you're brave enough to go out early Friday morning when it's dark, make sure you park in a well lighted area," said Quincy Police Officer Dave Ludwig.
Ludwig says when walking across parking lots, pay attention to your surroundings.
"When you're walking to your vehicle, walk with your head up. Be assertive while walking. Be aware of anyone around you," said Ludwig.
As shoppers pack into stores during Black Friday, even the most attentive shopper can become the victim of a crime.
"Keep your keys and identification separate. That way if you do lose your purse, someone who comes across it can't find out where you live and enter your home when you're gone," said Ludwig.
The holiday seasons are also a big time for scams.
"Sometimes the credit cards are swiped twice. Check your statements carefully and if you find something that doesn't look right, contact the credit card company and have them take a look at it," said Ludwig.
When your shopping is complete, Ludwig says to walk back to your car with both your keys and phone in hand in case of an emergency.
"Lock your presents and gifts in the trunk, so they're not visible to people walking around the parking lot."
More often than not, if passersby don't see anything of value, they won't break in.
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