Top Tips for a Safe Christmas

In the run up to Christmas, the Charnwood Community Safety Partnership is reminding the local community how to enjoy the festive season safely and responsibly.

Be a Grinch - Make It Hard to Pinch!

• Don't leave presents under the tree in view of possible burglars.
• Don't make your home attractive to burglars.  Try to make it look occupied at all times by ensuring it is well lit, keep doors and windows locked and ensure all valuables are not visible through windows and doors.
• Don't store expensive gifts in sheds and garages.
• If you leave your car unattended, don't leave bags of shopping or other valuables on display.  It is safest to keep them with you.
• Check and set your house alarm
• Dispose of wrapping and packaging carefully - don't advertise your new goods!
• Take a note of serial numbers on your new goods.
• use a UV pen to mark your postcode and door number on new items.
• Use a purse alarm.
• Stick together - go shopping with a friend

Top Tips for General Safety at Christmas

• Don't drink and drive.
• Drink responsibly.  Don't leave drinks unattended and know your limits!  Beware date rape and drugs being secretly added to your drinks.
• However tempting it may be to walk back from parties at night, try to avoid walking alone and tell friends or family where you are.  Make your personal safety a priority and either use a registered taxi or ask somebody you know to accompany you home.
• Check the battery in your smoke alarm every week and use Crhistmas as a reminder to clean it and remove dust.
• If you are planning a aprty or fireworkds during the festive season, please think about others when it comes to the noise and time of night.
• Don't overload electrical sockets.  Take special care with Christmas lights - always switch them off and unplug hem before you go to bed.
• Never place candles near your Crhistmas tree or furnishings.
• Take time to check on elderly relatives and neighoubrs this Crhistmas - make sure they're safe and check that they have a working smoke alarm.