Surprise police step up security at 9 shopping centers

Surprise police will increase enforcement at nine high-volume shopping centers in the city in a safety campaign that starts on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving.

Police spokesman Sgt. Mark Ortega said the project's goal is to discourage and apprehend would-be thieves. Officers and members of the Citizens Patrol, the agency's volunteer team, will monitor strip malls and department-store parking lots looking for criminal activity and ensuring efficient traffic flow.

The operation will begin Friday and ends Sunday. Here are some tips for staying safe.

AVOID THE DARK

Shop during daylight hours. If you must go out at night, don't shop alone.

DON'T BE A TARGET

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

BEWARE OF STRANGERS

Con artists will try anything to distract you.

PARK SMART

Park in well-lit areas, and remember where you parked.

HIDE VALUABLES

Never leave valuables in plain view in your vehicle.

PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS

Be alert when walking to your vehicle, and have your keys ready before you leave the store.

NOTIFY AUTHORITIES

Report suspicious people or activity immediately.

A police car patrols a shopping center in Surprise.