SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Black Friday is one of the biggest shopping holidays across the nation. As people hit the malls and shopping centers early to score the deals, it is important to keep a few things in mind on this spending holiday.
ABC57's Sidney Moore spoke with Community Resource Officer Brian Meador about how you can protect yourself and your belongings this holiday.
Make sure to lock all your belongings and shopping scores in your vehicle. Officer Meador advises if you have a trunk to lock it there or cover your belongings with a blanket or something that keeps them out of eyesight.
Meador says, "You know, every year we see this where you'll have a whole bunch of packages in the back seat. You'll go in to do your shopping. You come outside and then your windows broken; your packages are gone. So just be aware, be smart."
ABC57's Sidney Moore also spoke with University Park Mall about how they are working to ensure a safe fun holiday for all. Christian Carlson, Area Director of Marketing and Business Development at University Park Mall says there will be security measures in place, but safety really starts with the community.
Lines start sometimes as early as five in the morning, and Carlson said you can expect crowds on this major shopping holiday.
Before jumping in those lines, lock up your belongings, keep personal items limited, and rise above the craze by being aware of your surroundings and kind to those sharing this experience with you.
Carlson says, "It's not worth fighting people and wrestling over. You know. There's going to be enough gifts here for everyone. So just try to be respectful to people. Treat them how you'd like to be treated. And I think everyone can have a safe and enjoyable time."