Holiday safety tips

As we begin the holiday season, excitement is beginning to fill the air and we are preparing for time to celebrate with family and friends. However, the holiday season is also when we can become more prone to issues like accidents, fires, and thefts. Below are some safety tips to help prevent unnecessary incidents from happening to allow everyone to have a safe and happy holiday.

At your home

• If you have a live tree, make sure to keep it watered. Dried trees with lit decorations can ignite and cause a major fire in a matter of seconds.
• Turn off decorative lights when you are not at home.
• Do not use decorations that have frayed or exposed cords as they are a fire hazard.
• When cooking, do not leave the area unattended.
• Do not overload plugs with appliances as this can cause a fire.
• If you keep gifts under the tree, ensure that area is not visible from your house windows. If it is visible, close your curtains prior to leaving home.
• When disposing of trash from your celebration, don’t leave boxes exposed for expensive items such as jewelry, televisions or video game consoles. These are clues for potential burglars.

Safe shopping

• If possible, travel in pairs or as a group, particularly after dark.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• When bringing items to your car lock them up and keep them out of sight
• If you carry a purse, never leave it unattended in a shopping cart. When you get to your car, put the purse in the car prior to unloading packages.
• When going to your car, have your keys out and ready.
• Wallets should be carried in your front pocket.
• If you see a suspicious person, activate your car alarm to draw attention to your area. Would-be thieves do not want attention.
• Always lock your car.
• Never leave your car running unattended in public areas even if you are only running in “for a second” — it only takes a second for your car to be stolen when it is running!
• Always be aware of your surroundings.