The Bilston Neighbourhood Policing Team has issued seasonal personal safety advice as part of West Midlands Police's winter campaign to keep shoppers safe during the festive rush.
Busy retail areas—such as Bentley Bridge Retail Park, Bilston town centre, and nearby locations … Wolverhampton market, Walsall market are prime targets for pickpockets, purse-snatchers, and opportunist thieves during the Christmas period.
Local officers advise staying alert and protecting yourself by adopting these practical safety habits while out shopping:
Festive Shopping Personal Safety Guide
· Secure Your Bags: Always keep your purse or wallet zipped inside your bag. Carry your handbag across your body with the fasteners facing towards you, and never leave your bag unattended on top of shopping trolleys or hanging on the back of cafe chairs.
· Stay Alert to Distractions: Pickpockets often work in teams. Be wary of anyone who bumps into you, creates a sudden commotion, or asks for directions while holding a large map or paper over your view—this is a classic tactic to divert your attention while an accomplice reaches into your pockets.
· Protect Your PIN: When paying at the till or withdrawing cash from ATMs around Bilston, shield your PIN pad completely with your free hand. Be mindful of anyone standing too close behind you ("shoulder surfing"), and put your money and card away safely before stepping away from the machine.
· Minding Your Tech: Avoid walking around with your smartphone openly in your hand or leaving it resting on a table while you look at items. Snatch thefts of mobile phones increase significantly in crowded pedestrian zones during the holidays.
· Park in Well-Lit Areas: If you are driving to retail hotspots, park in busy, well-lit, and CCTV-covered car parks. As detailed in earlier police guidance, lock your vehicle manually rather than relying solely on the key fob, and lock all purchases securely out of sight in the boot before driving to your next destination.
· Plan Your Journey Home: If you are shopping into the dark evenings, stick to main, well-lit pedestrian pathways. If using public transport from Bilston tram station or any train station for that matter. check your timetables in advance so you aren't waiting alone on empty platforms, and only use registered, licensed taxis.
Reporting Incidents While Out Shopping
If you spot suspicious individuals following shoppers, loitering around cash machines, or actively dipping into bags, report it straight away to WMP
· Emergency (If you are being threatened, a crime is happening now, or a suspect is nearby): Call 999 immediately
