Holiday Safety Tips

The holiday season is a time to celebrate family, friends, and give thanks. Unfortunately, the holidays can also be a time when mishaps occur. Hopefully these holiday safety tips will help you have a safe and happy holiday season.

SAFETY IN THE PARKING LOTS
• Shop early and leave early to avoid evening darkness.
• Park and walk in well lit areas.
• Walk with confidence, be aware of people around you, and know where you parked.
• Always lock your car doors after leaving or entering your car.
• Have your keys in hand so you don’t have to linger before entering your car. Check the backseat before you get in.
• Don’t leave packages on the car seats. Keep packages out of sight. Store them in the trunk or under a covered rear cargo area.
• Avoid parking near vans or vehicles with tinted windows or covered cargo areas.
• Watch for people who may be following you. This can occur inside as well as outside. If you suspect someone following you, report it immediately.

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SAFETY WHILE SHOPPING
• If possible shop with a friend or family member. There is safety in numbers.
• Always let someone know where you are going, what route you will take, and when you will return.
• Pay with checks and credit cards when possible. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Don’t leave any purchases or your purse unattended while shopping or in a dressing room.
• Try to carry as little as possible. Make multiple trips to your vehicle to store your purchases.
• Do not carry a wallet in your back pocket. It should be placed in the front pocket of your pants for safety.
• If you must carry a purse, do not wrap the straps around your arms or shoulders.
• Educate your children about what to do if they are lost as well as “Stranger Danger.”

KEEPING YOUR HOME SAFE
• We all want our homes to reflect the joy of the season, but avoid displaying gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
• Packages left on porches or doorsteps are “easy picking” for thieves. It also draws unwanted attention to your home.
• Compact or dispose of packaging discreetly. Often criminals will spot discarded boxes (electronics, etc) and target your home for their next burglary.
• When leaving town, have a trusted friend or neighbor take care of your home. Do not leave keys under a doormat or planter, or in the mailbox.
• Set timers on lights when you’re away from your home so it appears to be occupied.
• Illuminate or eliminate places an intruder may hide; such as the spaces between trees or shrubbery, stairwells, alleys, hallways, and entryways.

AS ALWAYS STAY ALERT TO YOUR SURROUNDINGS AND PEOPLE AROUND YOU!!!