Seattle, WA – Small Business Saturday officially kicks off Washington’s holiday shopping season, drawing crowds to bustling districts from Seattle’s Pike Place Market to Spokane’s River Park Square. With shorter daylight hours, rainy evenings, and busy foot traffic expected across the state, safety officials are urging shoppers to take extra precautions during this year’s Christmas shopping rush.
According to local authorities, avoiding shopping alone after dark remains one of the most effective safety measures. Whether you’re exploring Seattle’s Downtown Core, Tacoma’s Pacific Avenue shops, or Vancouver’s Esther Short Park area, bringing a friend or family member helps increase awareness—particularly in crowded or dimly lit areas common during winter evenings.
Parking choices play a major role in holiday shopping safety as well. Popular destinations like Bellevue Square, Seattle’s University Village, and Spokane Valley Mall often see packed lots and garages. Officials recommend choosing well-lit spaces close to entrances or high-foot-traffic walkways. Washington’s frequent winter rain can reduce visibility, making brightly lit, active areas even more important for safety.
Once you’ve loaded purchases into your vehicle, experts warn against leaving bags or gifts visible inside the car. Law enforcement across Washington regularly reports an uptick in car prowls during the holiday season, often targeting vehicles with visible shopping bags. Storing items in the trunk, covering them, or making quick drop-offs at home between stops can significantly reduce theft risk.
Shoppers should also remain alert in busy areas like Capitol Hill, Spokane’s downtown corridor, or Bellevue’s Lincoln Square. The combination of crowds, umbrellas, and holiday distractions provides prime opportunity for pickpockets. Keep wallets, purses, and phones secured and avoid leaving bags unattended even briefly.
Before leaving any shopping center or downtown area, officials recommend following the “ELFS” routine: Enter your vehicle quickly, Lock the doors, Fasten your seatbelt, and Secure your belongings before driving off.
