by Luanne Kadlub
Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Sofa Sunday and Cyber Monday equal one giant excuse to get out there and shop till you drop, whether it’s hitting local stores as soon as they open on Thanksgiving or the morning after, or plopping yourself down in front of your computer to take advantage of online deals.
Your BBB wants you to be a smart holiday shopper. The best way is to check out businesses first at bbb.org.
If you shop local:
• Keep in mind that crowds – both on the streets and in the stores – can be overwhelming. Be sure to take along a healthy dose of patience.
• Take your cue from veteran Black Friday shoppers who go so far as to make a list of stores in the order they will visit each along with items they will buy there.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Watch for potential tripping hazards such as icy sidewalks, store decorations, and aisles and checkout lines flooded with shoppers and carts. Ask for assistance to reach items high on shelves.
If you shop online:
• Check a website’s security settings. If it’s secure, the URL (Web address) starts with https:// The “s” stands for secure. Green in the lefthand corner of the URL indicates an even stronger level of security and a closed lock icon in the lower right-hand corner of the screen is an indicator of a secure site as well.
• Make sure your computer has the most recent antivirus and security updates.
• Always pay with a credit card should the need arise later to dispute charges.
• Keep the order confirmation and tracking number until the item is received.
~ Luanne Kadlub, Communications Specialist, BBB Serving Northern Colorado and Wyoming. 970-488-2044, Toll Free: 800-564-0370 Ext.135, wynco.bbb.org