The tourists are here, as evidenced by the number of out-of-state cars on the roads. While as Mainers we welcome these vacationers for their boost to the local economy, more people in the area means more precautions should be taken. This in no way implies that people “from away” might be looking for criminal activity or that all Mainers are pure of heart, it simply means be careful. Good advice year ’round, actually.

One of the ways people are victimized is through identity theft.

Back in the day, if a purse was snatched, the cash would be taken and the purse discarded. That may be true to some extent today, but much more could be in jeopardy if personal information got into the wrong hands.

Take Social Security numbers, for example.

Most of us have the numbers memorized so there is no reason to carry around that valuable card. If it were stolen, a gateway of trouble could be thrust open. A Social Security number is enough information for someone to obtain new credit card accounts in your name, then not pay the bills. It can take years to straighten out.

Remember, if someone steals your purse or wallet, that person also could steal your identity – so keep personal financial information in a safe place at home. That way if a theft occurs, it can be reported immediately to the appropriate credit companies.

And carry only the credit card you will need when you go out.

Taking the following precautions may keep you from being victimized:

. Never leave a purse unattended in a shopping cart. A thief could be watching you, hoping you will become momentarily distracted. Inattention presents the perfect opportunity to grab your valuables without your immediate knowledge.

. Secure your purse handle to the shopping cart with the child safety belt or a carabiner – a small, metal device that has a hinged opening on one side. Historically used for rock-climbing, carabiners now come in different shapes and are generally used for keys. They are available for minimal cost just about everywhere.

. Keep your purse closed so your wallet is not exposed.

. Never walk across a parking lot with your purse hanging over one shoulder. Wear it across your body. If a thief does try to grab your bag, give it up willingly because you could be could be injured if a struggle ensued.

. Don’t leave a credit card face-up at the cashier’s desk, as a thief could memorize the account number, then go shopping on line.

. Never hang purses on a bathroom stall door hook, even if the floor’s cleanliness is suspect. A thief could easily reach over the top, grab the purse and be gone. If possible, leave your bag with a friend while you visit the restroom.

. Keep wallets in a place that is not readily accessible to a pickpocket. Back pockets make wallets easy prey, not to mention what the extra weight and bulge are doing to the sciatic nerve.

While these suggestions may seem like common sense, look around the next time you are shopping in a store with carts. You might be surprised how many purses are left unattended “just for a second.”

If you should become a victim of theft, try to remain calm, get a good description of the thief – clothing, hair, distinguishing features, anything that makes the person memorable – and most of all, call the police immediately.

Speaking as someone who has had a purse, I offer that it is easier to take precautions than to clean up the mess.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865, e-mail info@eaaa.org or log on www.eaaa.org.