MARYSVILLE — The busiest shopping days of the year have arrived, and amid all the fast-paced shopping activity and distractions during the holiday season, it’s easy to forget that criminal are ready to steal any opportunity to turn your holiday into a sad occasion.

Marysville Police this year remind shoppers to be careful at area malls, retail outlets, downtown business and other stores as you venture out to shop in Marysville this holiday season.

“Don’t let getting caught up in the holiday shopping hustle and bustle make a victim out of you,” Cmdr. Robb Lamoureux said. “Follow a few simple tips, and you’ll be protecting yourself from becoming a target. Even criminals celebrate holidays, but don’t help them do it at your expense.”

The Marysville Police Department and Marysville Volunteers Program (MVP) crime prevention volunteers offer these common sense tips to make your holidays safe and happy:

• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back.

• Stay alert and mindful of your surroundings.

• Lock your car doors when you shop.

• Check the backseat before getting into your car.

• Never leave packages or valuables in plain sight. Lock them in the glove box or trunk.

• Park your car in a well-lighted areas, as close to the entrance as possible

• Carry a purse close to your body when you shop — as if you’re running with a football — not dangling by the straps.

• Try not to shop alone; bring a friend.

• Try to walk in a manner that shows you are calm and confident.

• If you have a large grocery order to take to your car before opening the trunk.

• Don’t stuff your purse or wallet with cash and flash it around. Carry only those credit cards you intent to use. Leave the others at home or locked safely in your glove box.

• Don’t use ATMs at night unaccompanied. Get the cash you need from your bank in advance.

• Keep pen and paper handy in your car to write down suspicious activity and report it to police by calling 911.

• If you are shopping with young children, always supervise them and don’t let them out of reach. If your older children or teens are with you and you become separated, choose a pre-designated spot where you can reunite.

For more information about how you can become involved as a volunteer in MVP, call Lt. Darin Rasmussen at 360-363-8319 or e-mail drasmussen@marysvillewa.gov.