Police are reminding shoppers to be aware of their surroundings and to use common sense to avoid being the victim of a crime this holiday season.

To keep gifts from being stolen, police advise not to leave items in plain view.

Carrollton police Capt. Chris Dobbs said shoppers hitting more than one store should “put your purchases in the trunk or somewhere not visible.” He added thieves can smash a window, grab something and be gone “in a few seconds.”

To keep yourself safe, Villa Rica Police Capt. Brian Camp said being aware of your surroundings can go a long way.

“Most of the time, thieves are opportunists,” he said. “They’re usually looking for someone who’s on their phone or digging in their purse. Not paying attention makes you a worse witness and a better victim.”

Dobbs said being with another person could also decrease your risk of being attacked.

“The possibility is increased this time of year of purse snatchings or someone grabbing something out of a buggy,” he said. “If you’re out late, go in pairs. Walk out of the store with somebody.”

To deter criminals, police have been increasing patrols in shopping areas. In Carrollton, bicycle officers have been exclusively patrolling shopping centers.

“That’s all they do this time of year,” Dobbs said. “The bike guys get out and walk through the stores. It helps deter a lot.”

Carrollton patrol cars have also been riding through parking lots more.

“They increase foot patrols in the businesses and they encourage officers getting out of their cars and walking around more,” Camp said. “It gives us a hands-on approach and we develop some kind of rapport with business owners.”

Although shopping crowds can attract more thieves, they can also increase safety. Although businesses on Adamson Square have adopted later hours on some days, Carroll Main Street director LaJuana Wilkins hasn’t heard of any safety concerns.

“I think with the good weather, everybody has enjoyed just hanging out in the downtown square,” she said. “There has been a lot more foot traffic.”