I decided to go to Mass tonight. It was cold but not snowing … yet. I checked the radar and decided I would be back before the snow started. By the time I parked the car, there were a few snow flakes in the air. And by the time Mass was over, there was at least an inch of light, fluffy snow piled up on my car. So much for my meteorological expertise.

But, A little snow couldn’t stop me from a shopping trip to Sam’s Club. And a lot of other people must have thought the same thing. I was surprised how crowded it was. You’d think people would stay home during the storm.

I was making my way thru the store picking up things on my list. As I reached into the refrigerator case to grab a block of cheese, I turned my back on my cart for just a few seconds. There were other people in the aisle, but no one close to me. As I turned back to my cart, There was a man just a few feet away, walking toward me. As soon as he saw me, he turned and walked away.

I don’t like to jump to conclusions, but I think that man may have been ready to snatch my purse. Or maybe just try to get my wallet or credit cards. Luckily, nothing came of it. But, it reminded me that these things do happen. And they happen FAST. So I need to be prepared and vigilant. We all do.

Purse Safety

Before you leave the house

• Inventory your purse. Photo copy all your credit cards. You can do several at a time. Copy front and back, so you have a record of all the credit card numbers, expiration dates, security codes and credit card company phone numbers.
• Only take the credit cards and cash you need. Leave the rest at home.

Walking with your purse

• Protect your purse. When you carry your purse, keep it close to you. The best way is to keep it between your arm and your body. Never sling it to the back. And don’t dangle it by the straps.
• Keep your purse closed. It won’t stop someone from snatching it, but it would be harder to take something out of it.
• Put your keys in your pocket for two reasons. If your purse is stolen, you’ll have keys to drive home and get into your house. And by protecting your keys from theft, you also protect your car and home.

At the store

• Secure your purse in the cart. Use the baby seat belt. Thread the belt thru your purse straps and fasten it.
• Hide your purse under something. If I’m wearing a jacket, I use that. Or as I buy things, I put them around and over my purse.

If the worst happens

• Don’t risk your life. Let your purse go.

Have you had an experience with a purse snatcher?
Leave a comment with your story and/or purse safety tips.