Don’t be a target for thieves

"It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" is a lovely holiday song because it recalls the glories of Christmases long ago and tells of holiday greetings and kids jingle belling. Everyone smiles when listening to Harry Connick Jr. or Andy Williams sing this song.

But that smile can turn upside down as criminals are looking to dampen that happy holiday spirit. Crime rates trend up this time of year due to shoppers carrying more cash and credit cards while in a relaxed, easygoing attitude that comes with holiday shopping. Criminals call it complacency.

According to Sgt. Jeff Clark from the office of public information of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, criminals are looking for crimes of opportunity.

"The main advice I give shoppers is remain alert and always be aware of your surroundings," Clark said. "If shopping at night, park in a well-lit area. Go shopping with someone or a group of friends because there is safety in numbers.

"I see parents holding their kids and shopping bags while talking away on their cellphones and not paying attention. Put the cellphone away and pay attention. And make plans with your children to reunite at a specific location in case you get separated from them."

According to Sgt. Clark, criminals don't need a big window of opportunity to victimize you.

"Don't present yourself as a potential target," he said. "All of us have a tendency to put bags on the roof of the car while opening the door or trunk or securing our children in the back seat. A criminal can walk by and grab that bag or purse before you can even think of reacting."

While Sgt. Clark is keeping an eye on criminals, Maureen Crampton, director of marketing and business development at the Forum Shops at Caesars, is advising on the best ways to approach shopping there.

"My first suggestion is to visit the Forum Shops website for a full list of retailers and restaurants to plan your shopping trip in advance," she said. "The best times to shop to avoid large crowds is when the center opens at 10 a.m. and right before closing on weeknights between 9 and 11 p.m. The best days for shopping ease would be Monday through Wednesday."

Crampton said visiting the Forum Shops can be more than just shopping.

"To add some fun and leisure to the experience, visit the Atlantis Aquarium for the holiday elf aquarists," she suggested. "They're adorned with elf-style wet suits and feed the tropical fish Monday through Friday at 2:30 p.m. And there is the fun of just walking and seeing all the festive window displays that can put you in the holiday spirit."

For a different type of shopping experience, go outdoors to Downtown Summerlin to enjoy the holiday parade, skating at the Rock Rink, and Santa at Winter Wonderland.

Monique Clements, director of marketing for Downtown Summerlin, said weekdays and early morning on the weekends are best if looking to avoid the crowds.

"One of the great things about Downtown Summerlin is that parking is convenient no matter which stores or restaurants you are visiting," she said. "Additionally, we have three valet areas that have started a text message system. Guests can alert the valet when they are ready to leave so their car is waiting for them. In addition, we have dining options at both ends and throughout the property, and holiday music is being played piped throughout the property."

Clements said customers are encouraged to speak to security guards who are constantly monitoring the property.

"They can be identified by their bright yellow shirts emblazoned with 'security' and they know that the safety of our guests is their first priority," she said.

When using an ATM, Sgt. Clark suggests looking around before beginning the transaction.

"My reminder is that criminals use skimmers that skim an ATM card and its PIN," he said. "Feel around and grab the area where you put the card and if it's loose in any way, don't use it. Go to another one or, if you're at the bank, go inside and tell bank personnel."

Then there are those who believe that the only way to shop is online. But be aware of potential pitfalls.

"When shopping online, use companies with reputable websites with proper security features," Clark said. "Avoid clicking on pop-up ads that go to another website or pop-ups that ask for personal information, a credit card number or bank information. And always use a credit card instead of a debit card because when money is stolen via a debit card by some cyberthief, you will be out of that money for some time while the bank investigates."