HENRY COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) – As Black Friday shoppers gather in stores, local agencies are giving tips for a better, safer shopping experience.
The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is advising shoppers to consider the following:
When you are at the store:
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Park in well-lit areas and lock your vehicle.
- Avoid leaving valuables, including shopping bags, visible in your car. Secure them in the trunk.
- Shop with a friend or family member when possible
Protect your money:
- Keep your wallet or purse close to your body.
- Use credit or debit cards instead of carrying large amounts of cash.
- Shield your PIN at checkout and monitor your bank accounts for unauthorized charges.
Safety for Families;
- If shopping with children, establish a meeting place in case you get separated.
- Avoid leaving children unattended in a vehicle.
The Better Business Bureau is also giving shoppers smart tips while shopping in-person and online. The BBB advises in-person shoppers with the following tips:
Plans for Black Friday Deals:
- Start with a list of items and use sale flyers and promotions to determine which store has the best price for the big-ticket and popular items.
- Set a budget and stick with it before heading out.
Make sure to read the fine print:
- Some retailers may offer an additional percentage off the purchase but could exclude certain deals or items such as “doorbusters.”
- Watch for companies boasting a high percentage off; the item may be “75% off,” but the original price could be inflated.
- Carefully check the price tags, terms, and conditions. See if competitors have the item at a better price or have a better return policy.
Check the reviews on items:
- If you’re not familiar with the retailer, visit BBB.org to check their complaint and review history.
- BBB reviews can be trusted over other review sites; find out why.
- Read product reviews on extremely discounted items.
Make sure to have a game plan:
- Make a game plan of which stores to visit at which time and what items to buy at each store. Some retailers only honor certain sale ads early in the morning and have a limited inventory of those items.
- Plan your mealtimes and when you will grab food to avoid shopping while ‘hangry.’
Sign up for rewards and emails:
- Many stores send their best Black Friday deals and exclusive coupons to subscribers to their emails. Sign up before the holiday season, then unsubscribe afterward if needed.
- Use reward cards or credit cards that offer cash back, points, or other benefits.
Learn about policies for returns and warranties:
- Pass any information about returns, exchanges, repairs, and warranties to the person using the item.
- Gift receipts are an easy way for recipients to return or exchange a gift if it’s not just right, but make sure the item can be returned before purchasing.
If you shop online:
- You may not have to leave the house if the store offers the deal online!
- Look for free shipping and in-store pickup options to avoid the crowds.
- Coupon sites and browser extensions can offer discount codes that may bring the delivery price below that of an in-person exchange.
- See if the upcoming Cyber Monday price might be lower than the Black Friday one.
For more information visit, BBB.org