OKC Police Offer Tips For Safe Black Friday Shopping

<p>The holiday shopping season has officially begun. As usual, some stores are opening Thanksgiving night for those looking for some of the best deals of the year. But police say it's also one of the best times of the year for thieves hoping to break into cars to collect whatever they can find.</p>

Thursday, November 24th 2016, 9:03 pm

By: Grant Hermes


The holiday shopping season has officially begun. As usual, some stores are opening Thanksgiving night for those looking for some of the best deals of the year. But police say it's also one of the best times of the year for thieves hoping to break into cars to collect whatever they can find.

“We're just asking people to be cognizant and aware of what people can see inside your car. If you can see inside your car and see your packages then so can the people who are out there specifically targeting these cars,” Oklahoma City police officer Megan Morgan said.

The things stolen most often? Items like purses, wallets and phones that are accidentally left behind in the rush to the door. Police suggest you take an extra second to hide your things under a seat or a blanket. And that applies to other purchases left behind too. The easiest defense, according to police, is locking car doors. 

“Make sure your checking the door handle, make sure that it's actually locked. If you have an alarm you can set make sure it's actually set,” Morgan said.

Parking lots can also be dangerous. Aggressive drivers can make for a ruined holiday outing. Pedestrians with kids and shopping carts piled high often forget to watch out for drivers many of whom speed through stop signs and open spaces.

Police said everyone, especially those behind the wheel should look both ways and take some extra time to make sure everyone is safe because the deals, they'll still be there.

“If everybody would just slow down, that would alleviate so many issues,” Morgan said.

Some stores may let shoppers bring in packages from cars to can keep them safe, something police recommend to check out before you head to the stores.

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