Here are some tips
from the San Luis Obispo County Sheriffs Department on making
your holidays safer and more fun. Call the County's Crime Prevention
Unit at 805 781-4547 or your local office for more information.
Out
& About
Stay alert to your surroundings and people
around you.
Lock your car and close your windows even
if you're gone for only a few minuets. Lock your packages
in the trunk.
When waiting for public transportation
or rides from friends, do so in a busy, well-lit place.
Teach your children to ask a store clerk
for help should they become separated from you while shopping.
Children should never go to a parking lot or to your car
alone.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Use
checks or credit cards whenever possible to pay for purchases.
If your credit cards are lost, stolen or
misused, notify the issuers immediately.
Purses and wallets may become targets for
crime in crowded shopping area, bus stops, or on public
transportation, so be extra cautious with them.
To have freedom of motion, clear visibility,
and to avoid mishaps, don't overload yourself with packages.
At
Home
Lock your doors and windows even if you'll only be away
for a few minutes. Give the impression that your house is
occupied by leaving on lights and a radio or television.
Use an automatic timer for your lights if you're not home
during the holidays. Have a neighbor watch your house and
collect your mail and newspapers.
New gifts should be marked immediately with your driver's
license or California ID number. Ask your local law enforcement
agency for information about Operation Identification.
Make sure your holiday tree doesn't block doors or passageways.
Have your tree mounted on a sturdy base so that small
children or pets can't topple it.
To keep your tree green, place it in wet sand or in water.
Make sure the holiday lights are in good working order.
Never burn wrapping paper in your fireplace.
Parties
When Hosting a Party -
Have nonalcoholic beverages available for guests.
Use a jigger when service alcoholic beverages rather than
pouring straight from a bottle.
Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.
When Going to a Party-
Know your safe limit and remember, only time eliminates
alcohol from your body.
Remember, it's okay to Not Drink, but if you do stay within
your safe alcohol limits, and never drink and drive. (If
you're not sure, then you're over your limit).
And
finally, don't forget the elderly and other
people who might be alone during the holidays. Think of sponsoring
a holiday event for neighbors, visit local hospitals or nursing
homes, and help sponsor the toys and food programs. The last
couple of years has been very hard on many your families. -
me
