The holiday season should be a joyous time but, unfortunately, there are people who can create misery and dangers that can claim lives.
Crime Stoppers has a number of suggestions for keeping things safe.
Always give your home a lived-in appearance. Leave lights on when going out at night or on a timer if away for a few days.
Have a neighbour collect your mail, newspapers, or flyers, and not allow anything to alert burglars that you are not home.
Advise elderly family members about the possibility scam artists may try to victimize them by seeking donations for phony charities or offering to make repairs to their home.
Let them know they shouldn’t sign anything or donate cash without getting a second opinion.
When shopping, make sure you protect your wallet or purse from thieves—and make sure an innocent-looking store clerk or gas bar attendant doesn’t illegally record information from your credit card.
Lock parcels in your trunk and keep valuables out of sight when leaving your vehicle in parking lots.
Before going out, make sure all windows and doors are locked and leave a radio on, as well as setting your alarm system.
It’s also important to mark all valuable items with an engraving instrument and also photograph them so they can be identified if stolen.
Never drink and drive. It’s not just a crime, it also could cost a life.
Over Christmas and New Year’s, people will be attending house parties and other functions, so before starting out, make sure there’s a designated driver who won’t consume any alcohol or arrange for a taxi.
Make sure you also are safe at home during the holidays. Use only approved ornaments and decorative lights, don’t overload electrical circuits, ensure power cords are in good condition, and unplug indoor lighting displays when going to bed.
Also extinguish candles and logs in the fireplace before retiring.
It’s important to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition, as well as having professional maintenance people inspect heating equipment and venting systems to protect your family from danger.
As well, make a personal check of your property to ensure propane tanks and gasoline containers are stored properly, and anything flammable is removed from your basement or garage.
