Clearwater police will be out in force on Black Friday (Nov. 25).

CLEARWATER – Police officers in this city will fan out across popular shopping destinations as the holiday shopping season kicks off Friday (Nov. 25)

They will be on foot, in cars, on bicycles and even in a mobile surveillance tower that gives them a bird’s eye view of the parking lot at Westfield Countryside Mall. That mobile surveillance tower is housed by the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office but is available for use by all local law enforcement agencies. Deputies will be teaming up to help Clearwater Police staff the tower during the busy kickoff to the shopping season.

Clearwater police are also reminding shoppers of ways to make their holiday shopping season a successful and safe one:

— Always lock your car doors, no matter what time of day or where you are parked – not just during the holidays.

— Never leave presents or other valuables inside your car where they can be seen. Secure them in the trunk.

— Park in well-lit areas.

— Shop with a friend or group when possible.

— When walking to your car, have your keys in your hand so you can access your vehicle quickly if necessary.

— Don’t be distracted by texting or talking on your cell phone as you walk in the parking lot or try to enter your car. Always be aware of your surroundings.

— Don’t leave purses or other valuables in a cart while you turn away to look at something in a store aisle. Always keep those items in your sight.

— When walking to your car from a store, don’t have your line of sight blocked by multiple packages or purchases you have made. Always be able to see around you.

— If you see something suspicious, say something. Call 911 or the Clearwater police at (727) 562-4242.

For information about the Clearwater police, go to clearwaterpolice.org.

Clearwater Police | Black Friday | Westfield Countryside Mall | Shopping | TB Reporter

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