MEMPHIS, TN - Those looking for deals on Black Friday, remember -- criminals are looking to cash in too. The holiday season is also prime season for thieves.
Cops say the biggest mistake people make is leaving their shopping bags out in plain sight. It's prompted the slogan "stow it, don't show it."
“I've been keeping stuff out of my car already and it's not even Friday yet” says shopper Kimberly Thomas.
Thomas has the right idea because this is the worst time of year for car break-ins.
“There's going to be an increase and it's going to start this week and it's going to carry on through December” says Major Kurt Philipps with Memphis Police.
As people scramble to buy presents, store parking lots become stomping grounds for thieves and shoppers still seem to think they're invincible.
“They think they're only going to run in for a minute so they don't think it will happen to them but it will” says Philipps.
Police are watching as much as possible. In Memphis, 'sky cop' camera's have already been set out in some high traffic parking lots, and extra street patrols begin Thursday night.
But there is something shoppers can do to protect themselves, and it's very simple.
“Put it in the trunk.”
That goes for purchases and your valuables, like cell phones and wallets.
Major Kurt Philipps adds that shoppers who have permits to carry weapons should lock them up or leave them at home. Guns are another item burglars will be looking for this holiday season.
Home burglaries also hit a peak during the holiday season, but if you're going out of town, Shelby County Sheriff's deputies will keep an eye on your house. You can call and let them know when you'll be gone and for how long. A deputy will stop by your home three times a day. This is only offered for Arlington, Lakeland, and unincorporated Shelby County.
