Maintaining a Safe Environment During the Holiday Season: Tips for Home, Travel, and Public Safety

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and gathering with loved ones. However, it also brings unique challenges to maintaining personal and family safety. From potential home security risks to travel concerns and heightened vulnerability while out shopping or dining, the festive season calls for heightened awareness and proactive measures. In this guide, we’ll explore three critical areas where you can enhance your safety during the holidays: being safe in your home, staying secure while traveling, and maintaining situational awareness while shopping or dining out.

1. Being Safe in Your Home

The holiday season often involves decorating, hosting gatherings, and managing a bustling household. These activities can inadvertently create security risks if not managed carefully. Here are steps to maintain a safe environment at home:

Secure Your Home Against Burglaries

• Lock All Entry Points: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, including garage doors and side entrances. Use deadbolts on exterior doors for added security.

• Use Timers for Lights: If you’re away, use timers to turn on interior and exterior lights, giving the appearance that someone is home.

• Install a Security System: Consider investing in a home security system with cameras and motion detectors. Many modern systems send real-time alerts to your smartphone, keeping you informed.

• Don’t Advertise Your Absence: Avoid posting travel plans or holiday schedules on social media. Burglars often scout online for unoccupied homes.

• Dispose of Packaging Discreetly: After unwrapping gifts, don’t leave boxes for expensive items (like electronics) visible outside. Break them down and dispose of them properly.

Fire Safety Precautions

• Christmas Tree Safety: If you have a live tree, keep it well-watered to reduce the risk of fire. Ensure it is placed away from heat sources like fireplaces or radiators.

• Candle Safety: Never leave lit candles unattended, and place them on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from flammable materials.

• Check Electrical Decorations: Inspect holiday lights and extension cords for frayed wires or damaged plugs. Use surge protectors and avoid overloading outlets.

• Test Smoke Alarms: Make sure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly.

Be Cautious With Visitors

• Verify Unfamiliar Visitors: Be cautious of unexpected visitors, including delivery personnel or service providers. Ask for identification before allowing them entry.

• Package Delivery Safety: Porch piracy peaks during the holidays. Track deliveries and consider installing a camera doorbell or using an alternative delivery location, such as a locker or a neighbor’s home.

2. Being Safe While Traveling

Whether you’re visiting family across town or embarking on a long trip, holiday travel comes with its own set of risks. Preparation and vigilance are key to staying safe while on the move.

Prepare Your Home Before Leaving

• Hold Your Mail: A full mailbox can signal your absence to potential intruders. Contact your local post office to temporarily hold your mail.

• Unplug Appliances: To prevent electrical fires, unplug non-essential appliances and electronics before you leave.

• Notify Trusted Neighbors: Inform a neighbor you trust about your travel plans and ask them to keep an eye on your property.

Plan for Safe Driving

• Inspect Your Vehicle: Ensure your car is in good condition before any trip. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. Carry an emergency kit that includes a flashlight, jumper cables, water, and blankets.

• Avoid Distracted Driving: Focus on the road and avoid using your phone while driving. Designate a navigator if you need to use GPS or handle directions.

• Stay Alert: Be extra cautious in holiday traffic and watch for erratic drivers who may be distracted or under the influence.

Stay Safe at Hotels and Rentals

• Choose Secure Accommodations: Book hotels or rentals in safe, well-lit areas. Look for properties with good reviews and visible security measures.

• Secure Your Belongings: Use hotel safes to store valuables like passports, jewelry, and electronics. Avoid leaving items in plain sight in your room or car.

• Lock Doors and Windows: Ensure all entry points in your accommodation are locked when you’re inside or out.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Share Your Itinerary: Let a trusted friend or family member know your travel plans, including destinations and contact information.

• Have Backup Documents: Carry copies of important documents, such as your ID, insurance, and emergency contacts, in case of loss or theft.

3. Being Safe and Maintaining Situational Awareness While Shopping and Dining

The holiday season sees a significant increase in activity at malls, restaurants, and public spaces, which unfortunately makes them attractive targets for theft and other crimes. Staying alert and prepared is essential in these environments.

Shopping Safety Tips

• Park Smart: Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas. Avoid isolated spots and lock your car doors. Keep valuables hidden or in the trunk.

• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Avoid distractions like using your phone while walking through parking lots or stores. Stay vigilant and watch for suspicious behavior.

• Carry Essentials Only: Limit the amount of cash you carry and avoid flashing expensive items like jewelry. Use a crossbody bag or keep your wallet in a front pocket to deter pickpockets.

• Shop During Off-Peak Hours: Crowded stores can increase the risk of theft or accidents. If possible, shop during less busy times.

Restaurant Safety Tips

• Keep Your Belongings Close: Place bags or purses where you can see and reach them, such as on your lap or between your feet. Avoid hanging them on the back of chairs.

• Choose Safe Locations: Opt for well-lit, reputable restaurants, and avoid areas with a history of crime or poor security.

• Monitor Your Food and Drinks: Never leave your food or drinks unattended, as this could leave you vulnerable to tampering.

General Situational Awareness

• Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation. It’s better to err on the side of caution.

• Stay With a Group: When possible, shop or dine with others, as there’s safety in numbers.

• Have an Exit Strategy: Familiarize yourself with the layout of stores or restaurants, including exits, in case of an emergency.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season should be a time of celebration, not concern. By taking proactive steps to secure your home, stay safe while traveling, and maintain situational awareness in public spaces, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from preventable risks.

Safety is about preparation and vigilance. Whether at home, on the road, or in bustling holiday crowds, maintaining awareness and practicing good habits will ensure your holiday season is filled with joy, peace, and security.