Mayor, HPD Chief visit Galleria on Black Friday to discuss more ways to stay safe while shopping
HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- Many of you will start your holiday shopping this Black Friday and throughout the weekend.
Mayor Sylvester Turner and Police Chief Troy Finner made a trip to the Galleria on Friday afternoon to share some safety tips with shoppers and workers.
"We are doing everything we can and even in addition to the things we've done in the past, to keep people safe," Turner said.
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Earlier this week, Finner urged everyone to be alert as they head in and out of stores.
"Be aware of your surroundings at all times. And please, to everybody, when you're leaving a store, get off your phone! Don't be distracted," Finner warned.
Finner said a robber could be following you, and being on your phone would make you an easy target.
SEE MORE: HPD reminds shoppers to stay aware as ATM robberies increase ahead of busy holiday season
It's recommended you don't leave your bags in the car and don't wear designer bags or big jewels.
The chief also said not to leave firearms in the car after they say more than 36,000 were stolen from vehicles last year.
HPD said if you see a person wandering around and not shopping, report it to security or a police officer.
"It's also important to know where your nearest police station is," Finner said. "Make sure we do what Houstonians do. We look out for one another and take care of one another."
SEE ALSO: How to avoid scams during Black Friday and the holidays
