Today, I received an email from the Dallas District Attorney (I don’t know how I ended up on his mailing list), setting out some holiday safety tips. They sounded like good tips so I thought I’d pass them on to you.
- Do not announce publicly on social media that you’re about to go on this big getaway vacation with your family. You never know who’s lurking at the other end of your profile. One minute you’re on a cruise, the next minute a thief will probably break into your home.
- If you are traveling for an extended period of time during the holidays, advise your neighbor. Advise your relatives. Make sure that someone is keeping a watchful eye on your property.
- Make your home appear occupied. Attach timers to lights and television sets and set them to turn on and off at different times.
- When parking your vehicle to go shopping, remember where you parked it! Always park in a well lit and well traveled area. Do not park in a remote dark area.
- When storing items purchased at the stores, place them out of sight. The best place is in a locked trunk.
- Don’t resist if someone tries to take any of your belongings. Don’t chase someone who robs you, they may have a weapon. Instead call 911.
- December is the peak time of year for home candle fires. In December, 11% of home candle fires began with decorations compared to 4% the rest of the year. Keep a diligent eye on fire hazards.
- Falling to the ground hurt. Falling from a ladder is painful and can even be deadly. When putting up Christmas decorations be sure to have a partner to assist you for event he simplest task.
- Don’t openly display your Christmas tree and gifts in the front window so it’s easily visible from the street. It’s too tempting for a potential criminal to smash the window and grab the wrapped packages. Or plan a later break-in based on their earlier observation.
- Burglars know to look for the hidden door key near the front entrance. Don’t hide spare keys under rocks, in flowerpots, or above door ledges. Instead give the spare key to a trusted neighbor.
Follow this advice, and have a happy holiday.
