ADVICE MAY HELP SHOPPING SAFETY.

Byline: Greg Botonis Staff Writer

PALMDALE - As the biggest shopping day of the holiday season gets under way today, Los Angeles County sheriff's officials say there are ways for people to keep safe both at stores and at home.

``This time of year we have an increased number of shoppers out, but we also have an increased number of criminals out looking for potential victims,'' said Deputy Bobby Rush. ``Most safety precautions are just common sense things that most people already do, but sometimes safety gets lost in the shuffle.''

Among the suggestions:

--Shop with a relative or friend, during daylight hours if possible. When shopping with children, keep them close and make sure they know their phone number and address.

--Dress modestly and don't wear excessive jewelry, to avoid becoming a target. Shoppers should keep purses close, and if possible, leave the purse at home, putting identification and credit cards in a pocket. Carry wallets in a front pocket.

--Park in well-lighted areas and avoid parking next to vans or trucks that block the view of a vehicle. Packages left in a vehicle should be kept out of view or covered up, if possible in the trunk.

--Have your car keys ready before walking out of the store and into the parking lot. Once inside the vehicle, lock the doors.

At home:

--Close curtains, blinds or shutters so gifts under the tree are not visible from the outside.

--When going out for the evening, leave a light or a television on to make it appear as if someone's home. Using a timer will also make the home appear to be occupied. Also asking a trusted neighbor to watch the home will reduce the possibility of being burglarized.

--Strangers who come to the door either selling items or soliciting for charity should be asked for identification. If anything appears to be out of the ordinary refuse to make the donation.