Safety Precautions Santa is hopeful you take this holiday

Now that the kids are at home during this holiday season. You should be getting ready to make sure that there are systems in place to keep them safe. Here are some good safety tips to incorporate into to your home and when you are out shopping. Enjoy!

Holiday Shopping Mall Safety

The holiday season is here and thousands and millions of people will be frequenting the mall in search of gifts for their loved ones but crime is not taking an holiday. Try to find a mall where safety is taken very seriously. This means, you can easily spot a surveillance camera, and mall security officers are visible

• Parking – Park in an open and well lit area as close to your destination as possible. If you are shopping at night and feel uncomfortable walking alone to your car, ask the mall security officer to walk you. Look for a security camera and try to park close to that. Take extra care when returning to your car. If you notice anyone suspicious in the parking area you can use your keys as a weapon. If needed, you can also use your car’s alarm system by pushing the panic button on your alarm remote control or car horn to draw attention
• Avoid Germs – Make sure everyone sanitizes their hands every 30mins to avoid germs. If visiting the food court, be sure to wipe all furniture down before taking a seat at the table
• Purse and Packages – Don’t overload yourself with packages. Thieves are always on the lookout for people who might be distracted, keep track of your packages and try to stay off your cell phone. Hold your purse close to your body or use a front pocket if carrying a wallet.
• Rest Rooms – Avoid using restrooms that are tucked away in a back area of a mall or store department. If you can, find a restroom near the mall’s food court or other well-trafficked area and always accompany your child
• Clothing and Accessories– While you shop, make sure you check for potential safety hazards such as clothes that could cause strangulation, entrapment or choking hazards
• Fire Emergencies – Always know where the closest exits are located. In case of a fire or other emergency, make sure you can find the nearest exits and remember to avoid using elevators in an emergency.

Home Safety

Children are harmed at home than any other place these days. This is why you should put safety first at all times.

• Christmas tree – Faulty wiring and overloaded electrical outlets are one of the most common causes of seasonal house fires. It doesn’t matter if the tree is artificial or real, if a fire sparks due to your wiring, the tree will still burn. When buying a tree, make sure that the needles don’t fall out when you bounce it on the ground. These types of trees tend to dry out very quickly, meaning they will also burn quickly. Be sure to keep your live tree watered so it does not dry out. Only use safe decorations. Do not light your tree with candles or lights designed specifically for outdoor use.
• Medications –  Take medications and medical supplies out of your purse, pockets and drawers, and put them in a cabinet with a child safety lock
• Alarms: Install smoke detectors on every floor of your home and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. If already installed, re-test them!
• Avoid Overload: Check for overloaded extension cords – usage should not exceed the recommended wattage.
• Paint Safe: Check walls for loose paint. Consider VOC- free paints if repainting
• Childproof: Make sure all appliances, electronic gadgets, electric circuits, bookshelves, furniture, are secured. Cover all sockets/outlets. The last thing you want is spending Christmas at the ER.
• Watch Cord Placement: Extension cords should not be placed under rugs or heavy furniture, tacked up or coiled while in use.
• Fire Safety:  Practice a fire escape skit your family, so everyone knows where to go in the case of a fire emergency. Place all-purpose fire extinguishers in frequently used areas of your home; the kitchen, bedroom and basement. Be sure to check expiration dates regularly and know how to use them safely. Classes might be offered in your local fire station
• Movable heaters: Do not place heaters close to flammable materials. Make sure heaters are at least three feet’s away from all appliances.
• Unplug Appliances: Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use and store them out of reach.
• Save Money: Set your heater between 62-65 degrees Fahrenheit and warm up in your blankets. This might be a good time to snuggle with your family. We all need it