Koon's watch

Food and football will likely be top priorities for many on Thanksgiving. But safety and security should be top of mind for anyone heading out for holiday shopping during the long holiday weekend. Big crowds and extended store hours create distractions that can make you a prime target for crooks looking to steal your money, your merchandise or even your identity.

• Always shop with a friend or relative. A single shopper is the best target for theft.

• Tell someone where you’re shopping and what time to expect you to return.

• Keep cash in your front pocket rather than in a purse or wallet.

• Carry car keys in a pants or jacket pocket.

• If you feel uneasy returning to your vehicle alone, find a security guard and ask them to walk you to your car. Protect your credit card information from falling into the wrong hands.

• Keep a close watch on your credit card every time you use it. Get it back as quickly as possible.

• Never write your PIN on your credit card.

• Never leave your credit card receipts lying around.

• Only carry credit cards that you absolutely need.

• Shred documents with your credit card number on it. Report suspicious activity in or around a store to 911.