With the holiday season in full swing, Madison County Undersheriff John Ball would like to provide some safety tips that will help all of our citizens have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. With the increased demands on our time and attention this time of year, we are more vulnerable to crime and accidents. Take a few moments to review the following tips before you head out shopping and celebrating, confident that you are prepared.
Parking Lots:
- When walking through parking lots, be aware of your surroundings.
- Always park where there is plenty of light between your car and the store.
- Keep your car locked and have your keys in hand before you go to your car.
- Before leaving your vehicle, make sure there isn’t anything of value in sight, including cell phones, GPS units, change in cup holders, and holiday purchases.
Shopping:
- Shop with a friend or relatives; there is safety in numbers.
- Don’t leave your purse/bag unattended (even for a few seconds) in your cart.
- Don’t carry large amounts of money. Keep money in a front pocket.
- Only carry one or two credit cards and make sure you secure them after use.
Shopping with Children:
- Always supervise your children in public places. Accompany young children to the restroom.
- Teach young children to go for help if they get separated from you. Teach them to look for a cashier or uniformed security guard.
- If you allow your teenage children to shop without you, have them take a friend, check in with you on a regular basis, and have a set time and place to pick them up.
Shopping Online:
- Making purchases online is a way to avoid the crowded shopping centers, but use caution.
- Only shop at sites that begin with “https.” That designates the site as secure.
- Stick with established retailers and retailers from our local community with a presence online. Shopping locally is good for the local economy and more secure.
- If you are shopping with an unfamiliar retailer, look them up on the Better Business Bureau website or do a Google search for complaints regarding the retailer
- Keep tabs on your account online; check off receipts and watch for any unauthorized activity – particularly during the holiday season.
At Home:
- Don’t display your gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
- Lock doors and windows when you leave the house.
- Use only UL-listed extension cords, lights and Christmas ornaments. Don’t overload outlets or electrical boxes.
- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure proper operation. If you need a new detector, please contact the Madison County Emergency Management Department at (315) 366-2789 for a free one!
Driving:
- When celebrating away from home, don’t drink and drive.
- Choose a designated driver before heading out. Have a plan!
- If hosting a party, provide refreshments for designated drivers and arrange transportation for guests who should not drive home.
- If possible, avoid driving during the early and late evening hours on Christmas and New Years.
- Protect yourself and passengers by wearing your seatbelt at all times, in case of a crash. It’s the law. Pay attention to the weather and possible changing road conditions.
Please remember that if you are a victim of crime, you should contact the Sheriff’s Office or other law enforcement agency immediately by dialing 911.
If we all follow these common sense tips, we can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season. Happy Holidays from the men and women of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.