Holiday Safety

Driving

Avoid driving alone or at night
Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car
If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area
Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows
Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside
Do not leave packages on the seat of your car This creates a temptation for thieves
When approaching and leaving your vehicle be aware of your surroundings
Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area
Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location

If you must use an ATM, choose one that is located inside a police station, mall, or well-lighted location Withdraw only the amount of cash you need
Protect your PIN by shielding the ATM keypad from anyone who is standing near you
Do not throw your ATM receipt away at the ATM location

Dress casually and comfortably
Avoid wearing expensive jewelry
Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible
Always carry your Massachusetts Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use
Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert of your surroundings
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash
Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible
Keep cash in your front pocket
Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused
Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home
Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit
Avoid overloading yourself with packages It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps

If possible, leave small children at home with a trusted babysitter
Teach your child to go to a store clerk and ask for help in case your child is separated from you
Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping
Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the rest room
Children should never be allowed to go to the car alone and they should never be left alone in the car
Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to police officers or mall security Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them

Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house, even for a few minutes
When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail
Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer
Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied
Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors of your home
When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home
Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves
If you use lights on your Christmas tree ensure the wiring is not damaged or frayed Frayed or damaged wiring can cause a fire
Place your Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green
Never place wrapping paper in your fireplace

Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts
It is not uncommon for criminals to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved
Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used
If you are not satisfied, do not donate
Donate to a recognized charitable organization

Have non-alcoholic beverages available for party guests
Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests
Arrange for an official designated driver for your party who will not drink at all

Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages
Eat high-protein foods that will stay in your stomach longer and slow the absorption of alcohol into your system
Remember only time will eliminate the alcohol from your body
Know your safe limit
Never drink and drive