Staying Safe This Holiday Season

While the holidays bring joy, fun, and family togetherness, they also bring with them a significant increase in crime. Theft, alcohol-related accidents and fatalities, assaults, and property damage are primary examples of the types of incidents that become more frequent during the holiday season. There are simple measures you can take to avoid becoming a victim of seasonal crime.

Safety at Home

If you're planning on being away from home during the holidays, be sure to secure any valuables you may have and check the locks on doors and windows for signs of wear. Make sure all potential entry points are secure and if you have an alarm, use it. Let a neighbor or trusted friend know how long you plan to be gone and where they can contact you in case of an emergency. You may also check with your local law enforcement to see if they have a program where they will check on your home while you're away. If you're going to be home for Christmas, be aware of anyone who comes to your door attempting to sell something or ask for charitable donations. There tends to be an increase in these types of scams during the holiday season as more people are willing to give to charity this time of year.

On the Road

During the holiday season, there are more cars on the road as people travel to be with family and friends. There are also a larger number of accidents related to alcohol as people celebrate the holidays. If you're planning to engage in any social activities where drinking will be involved, plan ahead and have a designated driver or money to call a cab. For those other times when you're on the road, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Wear your seat belt, drive defensively, and always be aware of other drivers. Make sure your vehicle is in proper working order and don't travel late at night, or if you have to travel late at night don't make the trip alone. If your child rides in a car seat, make sure it's properly installed and in good condition

Shopping Safety

It's easy to get lost in your surroundings during the hustle and bustle of shopping. All too often, theft or other serious crime can occur as you're walking to the parking lot, loaded down with packages. To stay safe while shopping, avoid buying more than you can comfortably carry. If you can't shoulder the load, ask a store employee to help you with your packages. Park in well-lit areas and don't shop alone after dark. Have your keys ready and be alert and aware of your surroundings as you walk to your car. Take a friend along with you, and if you have kids, make sure they have your cell phone number in case you become separated while shopping.

Protecting Your Assets

If you're going to carry cash with you in large amounts, leave a small amount in your wallet and secure the rest separately. Be aware of your surroundings at the ATM, especially after dark. Don't offer your credit card information to anyone over the phone or to anyone you don't trust as identity theft runs rampant during the holidays. Don't leave valuables in your car, of if you do, don't leave them in plain sight. Secure them in a locked glove box or trunk.

Keeping Kids Safe

Keep a close eye on children when out in public, especially at large gatherings or other crowded places. Many families go to parades, tree lightings, and other ceremonies during the holidays and it's easy to lose track of one another in a crowd. Dress small children in brightly-colored clothing so they will stand out in a crowd and always accompany them to the restroom. For each destination, develop a plan so that if in the event you do get separated, your children will know exactly where to go to meet up with you.

Keeping safe during the holidays doesn't mean you have to miss out on all the fun. By taking these and other precautions you ensure that you and your family have a safe and happy holiday season.