Black Friday is coming! Are you ready? It has been quite some time since I have been to a Black Friday sale. The day after Thanksgiving, people are usually lined up at stores to get a head start on their holiday shopping. There are usually deep discounts on electronics and other items which are usually slated as the best deals of the year. However, if you’re going to the store at 6pm, be careful that you do not become a crime statistic. Black Friday is not all about how much money you can save, but also about protecting it and yourself as well. Today I want to share with you 5 Black Friday Safety Tips.
1. Dress Warmly
First of all before you head out the door you need to dress warmly. After all, it’s November and unless you live in the Sunshine State, it will be cold. Dress warmly to keep the cold at bay, but there’s no need to overdress as you will heat up inside the stores. If you plan on taking your kids with you (which I don’t recommend), make sure that they are dressed for the weather too.
2. Protect Your Credit/Debit Cards
There is no need to carry your entire wallet of credits cards or even cash with you when going Black Friday shopping. Taking along just one credit or debit card will minimize damage in the event that you fall victim to credit card theft or even identity theft. If your debit or credit card ends up going missing, report the loss or theft IMMEDIATELY to your credit card issuer or bank. Reporting the loss immediately limits the liability for unauthorized use. With that being said, keep your cell phone with you and avoid unsecured wifi networks.
3. Keep track of receipts
Keep track of your receipts to verify against bank or credit card statements and to dispute any charges that you are not aware of. You will also need your receipts in the event that you need to return or exchange any items. It’s also a good idea to know your rights when it comes to refunds, returns and exchanges.
4. Deter Pickpockets
Yes pickpockets are still around and they are more likely to in a crowded area where their trade can be done easily and quickly. Leave your valuables at home and carry your purse or wallet on the inside of your front pants or coat pocket. Purses that zip are also better to take along with you and should be worn closely to your body. It’s preferable to have them in front of you than over your shoulder.
5. Shop at places you trust
That includes both online and brick and mortar stores. Pop up shops may seem like a good idea, but if they won’t be around once the holiday is over, you may be out of your money if the product is not what you were expecting. Remember, if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
So get those deals that you’ve had your eyes on all year, but remember to be safe! For more safety tips during Black Friday shopping, check out this article from Allstate, Loading Up Your ‘Sleigh’ this Black Friday? 4 Tips to Keep in Mind.
This post was written as part of the Allstate Influencer Program and sponsored by Allstate. All opinions are mine. As the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer, Allstate is dedicated not only to protecting what matters most–but to guiding people to live the Good Life, every day.
