Traditionally, the day following Thanksgiving is the "official" start of the holiday shopping season. Stores attempt to lure all of us in with "exciting" pre-Christmas sales. This year, I believe, we may see things moved up to the day after Halloween as retail sales have thus far been poor and the Christmas season basically can make or break store owners.

While we are busy shopping for "specials" and holiday gifts, pickpockets, purse snatchers, and muggers will begin looking and shopping for victims. They know that, during this holiday period, all of us are carrying extra cash and a good number of credit cards. These "folks" can be very brazen. Just recently, two women were robbed at knife point while one was getting into and the other out of their respective cars. This occurred during broad daylight in upscale St. Phillip's Plaza.

I don't go shopping very frequently, usually only when I am in search of a particular book (Barnes & Noble-Foothills Mall), or maybe a tool (Sears -Tucson Mall). Most of my other ventures are to purchase food or a variety of miscellaneous items at local shopping centers.

Regardless of where I go, and perhaps because of my training, I am "shocked" at the carefree attitude exhibited by shoppers regarding their personal property and safety. Men walking from their cars can be seen counting the cash in their wallets. Women are digging into their purses for car keys while enroute to their vehicle. Folks placing pakages into the back seats or trunks of their cars seem completely unaware of their surroundings and the possibility that they might be within a few steps of potential danger.

Throughout the remainder of this holiday season, I plan to focus on proven practices and suggestions which may help assure you of a happy holiday season and indeed might save your life or that of a family member.

As always, your comments, remarks are most welcome.

Walk In Peace,
Alan

Alan Dankwerth has been a martial arts, self-defense instructor and personal safety teacher for over 30 years. He believes that everyone should know how to protect themselves.