From the Executive Director

Juan A. Navejar Jr

As business owners, managers, sales people and personnel, we can get caught up in the hectic holiday season. We put all our efforts to make our business have a lucrative return on our investments that when we go out ourselves to shop we overlook some safety precautions that can ruin our holiday spirit.
Here are some common sense safety tips for you to remember:
Plan ahead. Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Also make a list of the gifts you would like to give. This helps you to avoid buying on impulse gifts that may be inappropriate or too expensive.
Compare prices and shop carefully. Holiday “sales” and “markdowns” sometimes are not the bargains they appear to be. Read catalogs and advertisements to compare prices for the same or similar merchandise to determine whether a holiday price is really a bargain.
Ask the merchant about its refund and exchange policy before purchasing any items. A store is not obligated to accept items for refund, exchange, or credit unless the item is defective or was misrepresented. Never assume that the merchandise can be returned. Refund and exchange policies vary from store to store, so before making a purchase inquire about and completely understand the store’s policy. To make the process easier, be sure to save all tags and receipts and bring the merchandise back in good condition and as soon as possible. Remember that some stores have a time limit for returns.
Clean out your wallet, purse, or pocketbook before heading out for shopping excursions to protect yourself from identity theft. Remove unnecessary credit cards, debit cards, your Social Security card, and other unneeded documents that could compromise your identity if lost or stolen while shopping. Pickpockets will be out in force during the holiday season.  
If you are using a debit card or withdrawing money from an ATM, stand between the next person in line and the debit card machine when entering your pin number. Do not worry about being impolite, it is rude to stand in view of another person's personal banking information.
Be aware of your surroundings. Don't forget to take simple precautions to protect your personal safety. Men can carry their wallets in a front pocket, which is less susceptible to pickpocketing. Women can place their purse strap over their head and across their chest. The bait and switch trick is popular during the holidays where someone will switch a worthless bag for yours when you are not looking. Keep an eye or a hand on your bags at all times. When shopping at night, park in a well-lit area. Be careful getting into and out of your car at the shopping mall.  
Enjoy the season and have a Merry Christmas.