Sheriff Offers Holiday Safety Tips
Sheriff Jerry Larpenter has offered tips to keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe during the holidays.
During this time of year, thefts can be more common. Here are some tips to avoid becoming a victim while shopping:
- Avoid shopping alone.
- Park in a well-lit, well-trafficked area.
- Avoid secluded or dark areas and always be alert of your surroundings.
- Don’t let others distract you in crowded areas.
- Limit the use of your cell phone in public.
- When using the ATM, take someone with you to watch for suspicious activity.
- Carry only the amount of cash you need. Whenever possible, pay with a check, credit card, or debit card.
- Don’t buy more than you can safely carry.
- Place purchased items in the trunk or out of plain view.
- When returning to your car, make sure you have your key in hand, ready to open the door.
If you’re leaving for the holidays,
- Be sure to lock your residence.
- Put away unattended items around the house, such as bicycles, lawnmowers, or any item that can be taken relatively easily.
- Check the lighting around your residence.
- Have someone keep an eye of your home and collect your mail and newspapers.
- Put timers on different lights throughout the interior and exterior of the house.
If you have pets, extra precautions should be taken during the holidays.
- Holiday plants could be dangerous. Poinsettias, mistletoe, holly, and pine needles are mildly toxic, and lilies are extremely poisonous to cats.
- Ribbons, tinsel, and strings can cause severe intestinal blockages if swallowed by pets.
- Chocolate, candies made with artificial sweeteners, meat bones and alcohol can cause gastrointestinal upset or toxic poisoning in pets.
- Some animals may chew on electrical cords which can lead to mouth burns or electrocution.
- Create a quiet, calming safe room for your pet if you have a lot of guest coming over.
More safety tips can be found in the attached flyer.
