With sugar plums dancing through your head, and the ringing of holiday carols in your ears you may fall prey to the Grinch that stole your wallet or even worse. The holidays are the perfect time to fall victim to muggers, identity thieves and would be kidnappers.

As we move forward in holiday mode we start to reprogram ourselves on the tasks at hand, such as shopping and preparing for family dinner. We tend to become so preoccupied with what we have to do we tend to let our inner senses fall to the wayside. The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but this is the time of year that you want to be as aware as possible. People who are not aware tend to become victims easier. Here are a few holiday prevention tips.

When shopping always be aware of your surroundings. If you have a weird feeling trust your instincts and do something about it.
Park in well lit areas. If possible always travel with friends.
Always remember to lock your car as well as look in it and around it before entering.
Never approach your car if you feel someone is following you or that you see someone hanging around near your car. Take the time to call security for an escort to the vehicle if you are worried.
Make sure to keep all carbons of your credit card. Do not let your credit card out of your sight. Do not leave your card out in the open for a person behind you to see, or copy down information. Be aware that criminals are now steeling your personal information to gain access to other areas of your finances and life.
If you are asked by a mugger to leave and go to a secondary location never listen. If they ask you to leave with them they have more in mind than you money.
If accosted by a mugger give them whatever they want as long as you can walk away.
If in danger make as much noise as possible, yell for help, scream or fall on the floor. A mugger wants to get away clean without any chance of being caught.
Keep an eye at all times on your children and family. Teach your children about passwords and what to do in a dangerous situations. Remember preparation is what keeps people safe.
Teach your children if they are separated from you to go to a women’s clothing store. Women are more maternal and will help a child find their parent.

While the holidays are a magical time the only way to stay happy is to stay safe. Keep up your awareness and mental self-defense. If at all possible take a self-defense course and give yourself the advantage just in case.

Allie Alberigo is a 6th Degree Black Belt in the art of Ninpo/Ninjutsu and Jujutsu and has been training in the martial arts for over 39 years, as well as being a martial arts school owner, self-defense expert, public speaker and business owner. Allie is the owner of the L.I. Ninjutsu Centers, which has locations in East Islip, West Islip, Port Jefferson, Lindenhurst, and Bermuda. In 2000 Allie his first book “The Beginners Guide to Ninpo” and has also released his first video “The Warrior Spirit” (39 minutes). If you have any questions do not hesitate to call 631-321-5432, email him at renshilininja@aol.com, or check them out online at Lininja.com. He loves to hear from you.