Clearwater Police To Help Keep Thanksgiving Shoppers Safe

CLEARWATER, FL-While residents gorge on turkey, stuffing and pie, Clearwater Police officers will be out in force to keep an eye on holiday shoppers.

Officers will be on foot, on bicycles, in cars at shopping locations throughout Clearwater and even watching from high above the parking lot of Westfield Countryside Mall, according to Clearwater Police Lt. Michael Walek.

The aerial view will come from Sky Watch, a manned mobile surveillance tower housed by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office but available for use by any law enforcement agency in the region. Sky Watch is a regional asset available through the federal Urban Areas Security Initiative.

"Our added presence will seek out those who choose to victimize holiday shoppers and ensure that shoppers feel safe as they flock to their holiday shopping locations," said Walek.

Officers will focus on popular shopping destinations such as Westfield Countryside Mall, Countryside Village, Clearwater Mall, Best Buy and Walmart.

In the meantime, shoppers should keep these safety tips in mind:

*Don't leave packages in your car where they can be seen. The trunk is the

best location.

*Don't be distracted on your phone while walking to your car in the parking

lot or carry too many packages that can block your view of your surroundings.

*Have your car keys in your hand well before you approach your vehicle.

*Shop with someone else when possible.

*At night, park in well-lit areas.

* If you see something that doesn't look right or is suspicious, call the police.

*Always lock your car and take your keys.

Sgt. Wilton Lee helps Jodi Leisure of the Law Offices of Carey Leisure & Neal hand out free turkeys this morning. The law group is giving away 500 free turkeys while they last at 622 Bypass Drive, Clearwater.

Image via Clearwater Police Department