Christmas Shopping Advise
- While Christmas is a season for caring and sharing. If you feel compelled to donate, be aware of fictitious so-called "needy cases" which persons with the ulterior motives may approach you to support. If on the spot donations are to made be careful in opening your wallets or purses to hand over cash.
- Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of the year, "con-artists" may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money and/or belongings. Be on the look-out for forged 20 dollar and 100 dollar bills. Go to this page to see counterfeit 100 Trinidad and Tobago dollar.
- To discourage purse-snatchers and pick-pocketers don't overburden yourself with packages. Do not try to carry more than what the two hands can bare.
- Watch for people who may bump into you or try to distract you in some other way. They may be setting you up for pick-pocketing. Places such as Charlotte Street, City Gate and any other crowded areas are well known pick-pocketer's territory. Be careful!!!
- Avoid wearing excessive jewellery whilst shopping especially in crowded shopping areas.
- Do not use video arcades, toy stores or a movie theatre as a baby sitter. Predators may be on the prowl looking for unattended kids at this time of year. If you must take a child shopping with you, always keep them within your view. If you send your children to another department of the store, be sure that an adult is with them at all times. A name tag with pertinent information may be attached to the clothing of the child.
- To prepare for the event that you do become separated from your children during the shopping trip, it is advisable to provide them with a cell phone to call you and ask your location in the store. Set up a predetermined spot for such instances.
- If you go to an automatic teller machine for cash, avoid withdrawing large sums of cash. Check for people around and make sure it is well lit and in a safe location.
- Avoid walking aimlessly whilst speaking on the mobile phone or having them exposed.
This information was provided by the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS).
