While the busiest shopping day of the year brings the best sales of the year, it also brings potential for danger.

And as shoppers awake before dawn and make their way through the crowds today, local law enforcement ask that safety be kept first.

“There’s going to be a lot of people out,” said Brundidge Police Chief Moses Davenport.

Since there will be heavy crowds on Black Friday, Davenport reminded residents to be patient when making their purchases.

From another safety standpoint, Troy Police Spokesman Sgt. Benny Scarbrough suggested shoppers do not go alone.

“It’s a good idea to go with another person from a safety factor,” Scarbrough said.

Along with the Alabama Retail Association, Scarbrough also said shoppers should plan their route ahead of time to make the day go smoother.

This will help keep traffic moving efficiently, and it will also help conserve fuel costs.

Another area of concern on Black Friday is minimizing thefts.

Pike County Sheriff Russell Thomas said residents should be sure to secure their packages.

While residents are out shopping, they should be sure their bags are in sight.

But they should also keep them secured when they head into a different store.

“Don’t leave packages in the back seat or front seat of your vehicle where they can be seen,” Scarbrough said. “Put them in the trunk or secure them at your residence.”

Whether you are shopping or not, law enforcement officials remind you to be safe traveling the roadways.

“There will be a lot of people on the roadways that day,” Scarbrough said. “Many will be shopping and returning home, we’ll have a lot of people going to recreational events, and we just need to use caution when on the road.”

Scarbrough said Troy Police will be on patrol, assisting with traffic and shoppers’ needs Friday.

Thomas and Davenport also said the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and the Brundidge Police Department will be available throughout the holidays.

“We’ll be looking for any motorists that need assistance and individuals that may be violating the law,” Scarbrough said. “But above anything else, we wish everyone a happy holiday season, and return home safely.”