Be careful in a shopping mall, especially during the holidays.  You need to be aware of your surrounding and the people around you.  The best idea is shopping with someone. Even if that is not doable, walk with other shoppers into the mall and when you are done shopping locate a security officer to walk you to your car. If your kids are with you, it is suggested that you take their jacket off, go with another adult and ha/she can watch your kids while you shop and if they need you to watch their, it all works out.  Keep the kids close by and if you have to wait in line, give your child a book or snack, anything to keep them occupied.

http://www.yoursafetycomesfirst.com/2008/07/23/shopping-mall-safety.html