Security is, and should be, a year round phenomenon. When the holidays are upon us and all the planning, shopping, gift giving and festivities occupy all our time; safety should never be relegated to the back our minds. In Houston, like many big cities, the holiday time period is also open-season for criminals. The Houston Police Department has already begun several safety campaigns throughout the city in an attempt to warn residents of the annual rise in crime during the holiday season. Thefts, vehicular break-ins, pickpocketing as well as armed robberies and burglaries always increase during this time period.
Criminals know that during the holidays people are spending lots of money, hoarding gifts and taking trips. Add to that frazzled nerves, rambunctious kids a general lack of time for everything, and you have a criminal's perfect target! And the truth is that for most of us during this time period, safety and security concerns and awareness takes a back-seat to everything else.
Make sure that you don't let the holidays compromise you and your family's safety. Following basic precautions and using some common sense will ensure that your loved ones are protected and your peace of mind remains intact!
The following Holiday Security Tips cover some of the main security and safety risks you could face during the holidays. Print them out, study them and follow these easy guidelines for a wonderful and safe holiday season!
HOLIDAY SECURITY TIPS
While Shopping
- Shop during the daylight hours and if possible, with a friend. Carry a personal safety device such as the 3 IN 1 130db PERSONAL ALARM WITH LIGHT.
An alarm that acts as a flashlight, personal,laptop, and window or door alarm. Hangs on your purse or belt loop or attaches to any window or door, or look through our range of G-defense Systems security products.
- Keep your purse in front of you at all times, or if applicable, carry your wallet in a front pocket.
- Avoid overt displays of wealth, such as showing cash and credit cards. Take only one or two cards and small amounts of cash.
- Never carry lots of bags and boxes as you travel, such items can get in your way.
- Remember to park close to the store entrance as possible and hide all items in the car. Double check those locks.
Note: If you ever feel uncomfortable or someone makes you feel unsafe at any point while shopping or in the parking lot, go back inside the store or go to the security area of the shop or mall. NEVER downplay your intuition in such situations. Better safe than sorry.
At Home
At Home
- Do not put out gifts until Christmas Eve.
- Invest in a security system! If you live in an apartment there are wireless systems that can be installed that work the same, such as the HOMESAFE® WIRELESS HOME SECURITY SYSTEM.
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| A wireless system for your home, apartment or office security needs. This easy to operate security system will sound an alarm and dial up to 5 preset phone numbers to let you know motion has been detected or a door or a window has been opened in your home. You can add multiple remotes for additional family members. Take a look at this and other G-defense Systems security products. |
- Motion sensor lights are ALWAYS an added benefit around the home and can surprise would-be burglars.
- Always pay attention to the people who walk or travel in the neighborhood, especially delivery drivers and the like.
Note: Make sure all your security tools are operational and armed. If you have a security system arm it ALL the time, when leaving or coming home. Security tools are useless if you aren't using them correctly.
During Holiday Travel
During Holiday Travel
- Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your house, maybe park their car in your driveway or move on of yours in front of the house.
- Stop all mail or newspapers during your trip or have someone pick them up daily.
- Interior timed lights or timed mechanisms to turn on your television or radio is useful to make it seem like someone is home during the day.
- Always leave a few lights on in the house.
Note: Don't tell everyone about your trips. Putting it up on Facebook or any social networking site is an open invitation.
Have a Safe and Happy Holidays!!
Have a Safe and Happy Holidays!!
