Flagler County, FL – In response to a recent crime involving a theft at a grocery store, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) has released some tips on how to prevent related crimes in the future.
Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly is asking that patrons of stores remain aware of their surroundings and belongings when they are shopping and when they are outside in the parking lot. “Unfortunately there are people out there who will prey on others,” said Sheriff Staly. “People may be watching you to try to take advantage of a situation while you are distracted.”
The FCSO recommends that you think about where you are parking and that you always remember to lock the doors of your vehicle. Valuables should not be left in sight and vehicles should be parked in well-lit areas at night.
When inside stores, purses should be kept on your person or always in sight and never left unattended inside a shopping cart. If you choose to keep your purse in the cart, make sure it is zipped or snapped closed, and remember to secure it with the child seat belt.
After you leave a store, look around the parking lot for any signs of suspicious activity. It is recommended that you leave from the exit closest to your vehicle and that you have your keys in hand. Make sure to lock the vehicle as soon as you get inside.
“If you ever feel uncomfortable in a situation, contact law enforcement or the store security officer,” said Sheriff Staly. “And remember that if you see something, you should say something. You could save yourself or someone else from becoming a victim.”
Copyright Southern Stone Communications 2017.
