Safety is key this holiday season

The holiday shopping season began with a headline-making tragedy last year: A 34-year-old temporary worker at the Valley Stream Walmart was killed when customers rushed the store at its 5 a.m. opening. Jdimytai Damour was trampled to death, and as the anniversary of this Black Friday incident approaches, our thoughts are with Damour’s family.

There are many lessons to be learned from the tragedy. As consumers, we always look for the best deal, but it is never worth putting someone in harm’s way to save a few dollars on a sweater or a DVD player. The mob mentality that develops among shoppers, like those outside Walmart last year, is a chilling contrast to the idea of holiday spirit and is simply unacceptable. With stores across the country advertising huge “door buster” sales each year, it was only a matter of time before something serious happened.

And Black Friday isn’t the only potential danger of the holiday shopping season. Many criminals thrive among the largest crowds of the year, and shoppers must take necessary steps to protect themselves and others. The Nassau County Police Department has released several safety tips for this crowded season.

Always park in well-lit areas and remember where you left your car. Look around before heading to the store. If you don’t feel safe, don’t get out of your car. When you do, put valuable items such as GPS systems, laptops, bags and packages out of sight and lock your doors.

Plan your shopping trip ahead of time and know the routes you will take to get there. If possible, go shopping with a friend or family member. There is safety in numbers. Let someone know where you’re going, how you’re getting there and when you expect to return.