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Security Guard Safety Tips For the Holiday Season

Security Guard Safety Tips For the Holiday Season

It’s that time of year again. The weather grows colder, the families come together, homes smell of delicious food and boast decorations, and retailers are salivating. The days following Thanksgiving up till after Christmas can be the busiest days of the year for retailers all over the world. Stores mark down some of their most popular items to rock bottom prices till after Christmas or in the case of Black Friday for just one day.

Unfortunately, Black Friday, as well as the overall holiday shopping season has also become a time where altercations, thefts and accidents have happened leading to critical and even deadly consequences.

Here are some Safety Tips from Security Guards to help keep you safe during the holiday shopping season:

Click the + sign below to expand tips for each section

  • Be patient and control your risk of altercations and injuries by controlling your own actions and reactions.
  • If possible, do not shop alone. An extra person can help you spot danger, carry bags and deter criminals.
  • If shopping at night or planning to leave at night, try to find a well-lit area to park or close to the storefront.
  • Do not leave purses and valuables visible in the car, store them in the trunk.
  • Only carry your driver’s license and the credit and debit cards you need for shopping that day.
  • Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and accessories.
  • Make sure your kids know your phone number and to seek out a store clerk, Security Guard or police officer if separated.
  • Take a picture of your kids on your phone before you shop so if they are lost you have the most recent picture to show others.
  • Never leave kids in a car alone.
  • Program 9-1-1 in your phone for quick access.
  • Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
  • Carry the wallet in the front pocket, wear purse across the body instead of slung on one shoulder.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and visiting ATMs at the location.
  • Limit the time spent on your phone and other devices to remain vigilant.
  • In mass crowds, do not shove or push others.
  • Leave if the crowd tension grows and no authority figure is controlling it.
  • Locate and keep in mind where Security Guards and police are in case you need them later.
  • Keep your kids close to you at all times.
  • Keep in mind where all the close exits are located in case of emergency.
  • Try and buy only what you can carry comfortably. Consolidate bags.
  • If you feel you are being followed by someone abruptly change directions and walk toward them, alert a Security Guard or police.
  • Maintain eye contact with any individual who approaches you when the intent is unknown.
  • Walk quickly but confidently. Don’t be afraid to ask a Security Guard or police for an escort to your car.
  • If someone is physically threatening you for your personal belongings or purchases, give them up.
  • Have your car keys out and ready check your surroundings before entering the car.
  • Once in the car lock the doors.

Injuries and death during the shopping season have changed retail strategy over the last decade. Many retailers now offer the same products online at bargain prices before Thanksgiving and all throughout the holiday season. This has allowed retailers to reach a larger audience and it does increase the “physical” safety of shoppers.

If you choose to brave the holiday shopping at the stores this season, then follow the safety tips to ensure a pleasant and safe shopping experience.

If you are a Security Company then you know how hectic the holidays can be for your Security Guards. Make sure everyone is protected by purchasing Security Guard Insurance. Visit our Application Center today for your quote.

Get Your Security Guards Ready For the Holidays

If you are a Security Company then you know how hectic the holidays can be for your Security Guards. Make sure everyone is protected by purchasing Security Guard Insurance. Visit our Application Center today for your quote.

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