Queen Creek Police Share Safety Tips for Holiday Shoppers Amidst Small Business Saturday and Downtown Developments

As the holiday shopping season begins, the Queen Creek Police Department (QCPD) is reminding the community to stay safe, especially with increased foot traffic expected for Small Business Saturday and the opening of new roads in downtown Queen Creek.

Shoppers are advised to only bring the necessary cash and credit cards and to store these items separately to minimize potential loss. As noted in a recent statement by the Town of Queen Creek, being vigilant of one's belongings is key in crowded areas, where distractions may easily lead to theft. Additionally, limiting the use of personal electronic devices is recommended to maintain a higher level of awareness in public spaces.

In terms of practical measures, patrons should seek out well-lit ATMs and be discreet when handling their PINs. It's also prudent to stow purchases out of sight in locked vehicles and to stick to well-lit parking spots if shopping continues after dark. Online shoppers should engage with reputable, secure websites and keep an eye on bank statements for unauthorized transactions—reporting any inconsistencies to their bank and authorities immediately.

The community is encouraged to shop locally. "When you shop and dine in Queen Creek, you support local jobs, entrepreneurs, the economy and community programs," a release from the local government reminded residents, affirming the benefits of patronizing hometown businesses. In conjunction with these sentiments, an event celebrating the inauguration of downtown connectors is set for Nov. 30, paving the way for new development in the heart of the downtown area, with several businesses scheduled to open their doors soon, according to the same news release.

The town has invested in creating a walkable downtown district, a vision brought to life through the construction of core connectors like Aldecoa Drive, Munoz Street, and Summers Place. These new developments are expected to transform the downtown experience in Queen Creek, offering convenient connections and generating increased commercial activity. For more details on the developments and safety tips during the holiday shopping season, QCPD encourages visitors and residents alike to explore online resources available on the town’s official website and social media pages.

For those who may observe suspicious activity or other non-emergency issues, the department provides contact information for reporting. "QCPD encourages residents to call the non-emergency line at 480-358-3500 (9-1-1 in an emergency) to report suspicious activity or behavior," said Jennifer Lamis, Public Information Officer, in a statement reminding the community to stay proactive in their personal safety and neighborhood watchfulness during the holiday hustle, as detailed by town's official website.