HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

YOUR GUIDE TO A

SAFE HOLIDAY SEASON

“Building a safer city for our residents and visitors through collaboration and communication”

SHOPPING:

·       If at all possible shop during the day.

·       Always shop with a friend or family member, never alone.

·       Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.

·       Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

·       Never leave your purse or wallet unattended, even for just a moment.

·       Never leave your children alone in a store or automobile.

·       Make sure your children know to find a police officer or security guard in the event they become lost and know their address

        and telephone number.

·       Carry a cell phone with you and do not hesitate to call police if you witness suspicious behavior or feel threatened.

·       Always be aware of your surroundings.

·       Be aware of strangers who approach you. During this time of year “con artists” attempt to distract shoppers with the intention 

        of taking their money or belongings.

·       Park as close to the store or mall as possible in a well lit area.

·       Avoid leaving any visible packages, presents, or valuables inside of your vehicle. Secure these items in the trunk.

·       Always lock your vehicle.

·       Have your keys ready before walking to your vehicle and avoid fumbling with packages. Often

        criminals view this as an opportune time to  victimize you.

HOME SAFETY:

·       If you are going out of town let a trusted neighbor and/or the police know and ask them to watch your home.

·       Be cautious of who you make aware of your vacation plans.

·       Make your home appear to be “lived in” by having a neighbor or friend collect your newspapers and mail.

·       Use an automatic timer to control interior and exterior lights if you go out of town.

·       Avoid placing your tree or presents in a front window. Not only do they make tempting targets, they limit your ability to see outside.

·       Avoid placing decorations over windows or peep holes thereby limiting your ability to see outside.

·       Do not advertise what you received for Christmas. Tear up your boxes before you put them out as trash.

HOLIDAY and NEW YEAR PARTIES:

·       DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE!

·       Appoint a designated driver before you leave for the evening.

·       If a guest at your party has had too much to drink do not let them drive.

·       Be cautious of taking drinks from strangers

·       If you are holding a party at your office or home hide and secure all valuables.

·       Remember, fireworks are illegal in the City Of New Orleans and in many cases their improper and

        unsupervised use has  resulted in serious injury and loss of property fire.

·       If you are in an area where fireworks are legal, never allow children to enjoy them unsupervised. 

·       Never discharge a firearm into the air! In years past many people have been seriously injured or killed by falling bullets.