Savvy shopper take note - many retailers are attempting to compensate for dwindling numbers by providing deals for Christmas decorations and other items during the summer, the Associate Press reports.

Retailer Target is offering a one-time online sale this Friday which offers deals on 500 different items including Blu-ray disk players and clothing. Two other companies, Sears and Toys R Us, are trying promoting "Christmas in July" via their online marketplaces.

"It's smarter to buy this early," Ebony Rios, a shopper at Toys R Us in Times Square, told the news source. She added that last summer she spent $200 on gifts for her relatives, and hopes to do so again this season.

At Target.com, consumers will be able to save online through the "Back in Black" promotion, which will begin at 3 a.m. Friday, Eastern Time. Both Sears.com. and Kmart.com. are drawing internet shoppers to "Christmas Lane," where they offer ornaments, lights and decor.

When taking advantage of these great deals or other online offers, shoppers should be sure to guard their personal information by using a company such as eBillMe, which helps consumers keep sensitive data safe.