Everyone knows that Black Friday is one of the busiest shopping days of the year, but many don’t realize that thieves have the day circled on their calendars as well.
While people are roaming malls searching for the best Black Friday deals, likely on their second or third shopping stop, their cars become a target for people looking to save money using the five-finger discount.
Data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau shows that since 2011 there has been an average of about 30 percent more car thefts on Black Friday compared to Thanksgiving Day, despite more and more retailers introducing their sales on Thursday evening rather than early Friday.
San Diego County Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Dave Schaller says that Black Friday shoppers are usually easy victims and that they sometimes put themselves in situations where it’s easy for them to become victimized.
“A lot of times they don't even have to force entry into the car,” added Lt. Schaller. “They just open the door and simply take the item. We see that a lot."
Schaller also said that parking close to the store entrance, in sight of a security camera or under a street light are best practices whenever possible.
Storing goodies in plain sight in your vehicle isn’t the only way to attract thieves, though. Leaving purses or other valuable belongings unattended in shopping carts, even for just a few seconds, can also have some major consequences.
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Shopper Lindsey Kelley came prepared.
“We bring one little, cross body bag so that it stays close and you don't have to worry about setting it down and leaving it behind," she said. Kelley also kept blankets handy in her car so that she could conceal her purchases and hopefully deter theft.
Another young shopper said that she never goes out on Black Friday alone. This time around, she enlisted a group of friends to wake up at 5 a.m. and tag along with her so she could shop for gifts for her parents.
“I just pay attention to the people that walk past me and always keep eye contact,” she said. “I just try to be aware of my surroundings and not get too caught up with the drama that’s going around when people are really into the whole shopping atmosphere.”
Law enforcement officials say that each year they see an increase in thefts and car break-ins during the holidays, so the more cautious and vigilant you are, the better safer you’ll be.
