Caution is Key to Safe Holiday Shopping.

When dashing out for those last minute holiday purchases, don’t throw caution to the wind.

The Arlington Police Department Community Affairs Division says staying alert to your surroundings and following these 10 safety tips will go a long way toward keeping you and your purchases safe this holiday season:

1. Avoid shopping alone. Use the buddy system whenever possible.

2. Shop before dark or park in well-lighted areas.

3. Use waist-pack carriers instead of purses.

4. Make sure all doors and windows are locked in your vehicle and home.

5. Do not keep packages in plain view in your vehicle or home.

6. Do not count cash in open areas, especially after leaving an ATM machine.

7. Keep your address and home phone number private. When stores request a phone number, give only your work number.

8. After making a credit card purchase, request the carbon copy and destroy it in private.

9. Have keys in hand before returning to the vehicle.