The holiday season is here! It’s the perfect time to hunt for thoughtful gifts and festive treats. However, amid the joy of giving, it’s crucial to remember that crowded shopping centres and parking lots can pose safety risks, making you and your vehicle vulnerable to theft.
At Netstar, we care about your safety—not just on the road but everywhere you go. That’s why we’ve compiled these essential holiday shopping safety tips to help you enjoy a secure and stress-free festive season.
While it’s tempting to dress up for holiday shopping, avoid wearing flashy jewellery or expensive clothing that might attract unwanted attention. Opt for a casual look to blend into the crowd and reduce the risk of being targeted.
Distraction is a thief’s best ally. Whether you’re browsing inside a store or heading back to your car, always stay alert. If you notice anyone lingering nearby or behaving suspiciously, trust your instincts and seek assistance from security or store staff.
Plan your shopping trips during the day whenever possible. If you must shop at night, park in well-lit, busy areas close to the entrance. Visibility is a simple but effective way to deter opportunistic criminals.
Leave bulky bags and valuables at home. Instead, carry a small crossbody bag or keep cards and cash in your front pocket. This not only minimises your risk of theft but also frees your hands for shopping.
Avoid carrying too many bags at once, as it can make you an easy target. Make multiple trips to your car to unload packages safely. Shopping with a companion can also make you less vulnerable while lightening the load.
Before heading to your car, have your keys ready to unlock the door quickly. If someone approaches or you feel unsafe, don’t hesitate to return to the store and request assistance.
Wherever possible, use debit or credit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash. If cash is necessary, keep it hidden in a secure front pocket to avoid pickpockets.
Don’t linger in the parking lot while loading your vehicle. Store packages in the boot or cover them with a blanket to keep them out of sight and minimise temptation for thieves.
Netstar’s MyNetstar App enhances your vehicle’s safety while you shop.
• Track Your Vehicle: Use GPS tracking to locate your car in a busy parking lot.
• Stay Informed: Receive real-time alerts if your vehicle is tampered with.
• Secure Your Car Remotely: Lock or unlock your vehicle through the app for added convenience.
Netstar’s personal safety solutions, like the Netstar Companion, add an extra layer of security to your holiday outings. With GPS tracking and access to 1,500 armed responders nationwide, help is just a button press away.
Make Safety a Priority
The holidays are a time for joy and celebration with loved ones. By following these tips and incorporating Netstar’s innovative safety features, you can focus on creating festive memories while staying secure.
To learn more about how Netstar can help protect you and your vehicle, or to download the MyNetstar App, visit https://www.netstar.co.za/vehicle-tracking .
Stay safe, and have a merry, stress-free holiday season!