ERIE, Pa., Dec. 10, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- The shopping season
is in full swing, a busy time for both online and brick and mortar
retailers. The average American plans to spend $998 this winter holiday season, according to
the National Retail Federation. Though many of us plan to turn
to online shopping this year, you may still decide to make a quick
trip to the mall or your favorite local shops. (Make sure to
follow public health guidance from experts such as
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and your
local government.)
Whether you order online or go out, Erie Insurance has some
quick tips for a smooth and safe holiday shopping season.
- Travel light. Leave your purse at home if you can,
and bring only keys, phone and cash or credit card (and keep those
in a front pocket to protect from pickpockets in crowds).
- Be a picky parker. Shopping during daylight
hours is probably safer, especially when you're passing through the
parking lot with bags full of gifts. But night shopping, especially
with the season's shorter daylight hours and hectic work schedules,
is a necessity for many. Park your car in a well-lit area as close
to the entrance as possible. If your car is broken into,
here's what you should do next.
- Drive with caution. Whether entering or exiting
crowded parking lots or ramps, cars can pull out suddenly and
people can appear from seemingly nowhere. Slow down and minimize
distractions in the car to give your driving your full
attention. This is one way you can avoid a fender bender in a
parking lot.
- Buy local whenever you can. When it comes
time to shop for that special gift, think about supporting that
mom-and-pop, or local art shop first. Buying local keeps the
money within your local economy, while also helping to provide
new employment and job opportunities for people within your
community.
- Keep gifts out of sight. It's best to head straight
home after your shopping trip, but that's not always practical. If
you have more errands on your list, be conscious of where you store
your gifts in your vehicle. If possible, use your trunk and don't
leave gifts or bags with valuables on your front seat.
- Purchase gift cards or gift certificates (without
worry). Many places accept contact-free payment online or over
the phone. Stock up now and treat your friends and family (or
yourself) to a night on the town when it is safe to do so. Good
news: At no additional cost, ERIE
is automatically adding local gift card and gift certificate
reimbursement coverage to your ErieSecure Home® policy. Coverage
provides reimbursement for up to $250
per gift card purchased at businesses within 100 miles of your
residence if the business permanently closes within a year after
purchase. While no one wants to see a business close its doors,
it's reassurance that your purchase is protected.
Interested in learning more? At ERIE, living local is what we're all about.
For more than 95 years, we've been proud to work with local
insurance agents who live and work in the communities you
do. Talk to a local agent in your community about our
coverages, request a quote or learn more about what makes
ERIE different.
Erie Insurance Group
According to A.M. Best
Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie,
Pennsylvania, is the
11th largest homeowners insurer and 12th
largest automobile insurer in the United States based on
direct premiums written and the 16th largest
property/casualty insurer in the United States based on
total lines net premium written. The Group, rated A+
(Superior) by A.M. Best Company, has more than 6 million
policies in force and operates in 12 states and the District
of Columbia. Erie Family Life
Insurance Company is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company. Life
insurance policies not written in New
York state. Erie Insurance Group is a FORTUNE 500
company.
News releases and more information about Erie Insurance
Group are available at www.erieinsurance.com.
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SOURCE Erie Insurance Group