By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

Saturday, Dec. 23, is expected to be the second busiest shopping day of the holiday season other than Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving.

It’s an opportunity for criminals to ruin Christmas for you and your family.

Hays Police Lieutenant Brandon Wright offers some holiday shopping safety tips:

• Shop with a friend, especially if you’re going to an unfamiliar place.
• Shop during daylight hours or park in well-lit areas.
• Lock car doors and windows.
• Don’t leave packages or valuables in sight; use your trunk or cover the items.
• Don’t flash a lot of cash.
• Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity or people.
• Have your keys ready when approaching your vehicle.
• Once home with your gifts, keep your house locked.
• Be alert for package deliveries and use tracking information.
• Monitor your financial accounts and credit report for unauthorized use.

Wright notes these tips are good reminders for year-round shopping security.