Police issue back-to-school safety and shopping tips

With the new school term just a couple weeks away, the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) is advising parents and children to be vigilant, offering a number of back-to-school shopping tips.

“We urge parents and children to heighten their sense of caution while shopping,” JCF said in a release today.

“Here is a collection of tip/pointers to fortify your safety.”

1. Pause! Observe! Listen! – When crossing the roads, be sure to look and ensure that traffic is clear or have stopped on both sides of the road before crossing the street.

2. Create a Shopping List – Be sure of the items that are needed when going to make purchases. This eliminates unnecessary spending and time wasting, especially at stores you would not need to visit had you known what exactly you wanted.

3. Utilise Cards instead of Cash – Parents and children are asked to beware of pick-pockets, especially in crowded areas. The use of a card for purchases is more convenient and offers another layer of safety.

4. Be Aware of Your Surroundings – Look around at intervals while walking. Stay clear of crowded areas. Thieves generally disguise themselves in crowded spaces.

5. Avoid Crowded Areas – Towns and stores may have a great amount of shoppers at this time. For persons shopping with children present, be aware of their whereabouts at all times.

6. Be Mindful of the Time – Be sure to do your shopping during practical hours. Timing is everything, especially if you intend to utilise public transportation. Use buses for transport in this case versus taxis; and especially do not travel alone.

7. Minimise Cellphone Use – Unless extremely necessary, do not use cellphones in crowded areas.

8. Plan Routes – Decide before leaving home exactly what you need to purchase and create your route around getting to that establishment without wondering around.

9. Call Bookstores Ahead of Time – Speak with an employee at the bookstore of choice about prices and book availability. Some of these stores will package books prior if the booklist is sent and the books are in stock. This helps you to spend less time in locations, reducing the possibility of you being a victim of crime.

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