MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - The hectic holiday shopping season is upon us, and we want to ensure that all shoppers are safe. From early bird Black Friday sales to last minute shopping we have provided you with the tips needed to have a safe and satisfying shopping experience.

Walking to and from your car:
•Keep a secure hold on your belongings (purses, wallets, packages etc.) Do not put them down, unattended in a shopping cart or on top of the car in order to open the door.

•Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

•Shopping during daylight hours is recommended, but if you must shop at night park in a well-lighted area.

•Be sure to lock your car, close windows, and hide shopping bags, gifts, and valuables in the trunk.

Shopping with children:
•If you are shopping with children, make a plan with a central meeting place in case you are separated from each other.

•Review with your children who they can turn to if they are alone and lost, such as sales associates or store security.

Shopping in stores:
•Save all receipts. Print and save all confirmation from your online purchases. Start a file folder to keep all receipts together and to help you verify credit card or bank statements as they come in.

•Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. If you do carry cash, keep it in your front pocket.

•Always carry your Michigan driver’s license or ID card, along with necessary cash, check and credit card you expect to use.

•Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

Shopping online:
•Keep your personal information private and your password secure. Do not respond to requests to “verify” your password or credit card information, unless you initiated the contact. Legitimate businesses will not contact you in this manner.

•Use secure websites for purchases. Look for the icon of a locked pad lock at the bottom of the screen or “https//” in the URL address.

Using Automated Teller Machines (ATM):
•If you must use an ATM, choose one that is indoors or in a well-lighted area. Withdraw only the amount of cash you need.

•Do not throw away your ATM receipts at the ATM location.

Stay safe out there shoppers, and Happy Holidays!