Lawmen warn of need for holiday safety

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, people are excited and, many times, rushed to get things in order and just perfect for the holidays.

These are times when taking extra steps to be safe are even more important, according to Hope Police Chief J. R. Wilson, and the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office.

“The Christmas season is a wonderful time to be with family and friends, reflect on what is truly important in our lives and spread good will to our fellow human beings,” Wilson said.
Wilson said, as a public safety official, he wants to remind citizens to be vigilant and alert at all times.

“This joyous season is not necessary respected by all and some may see this an opportunity to inflict harm. If you see anything suspicious, call 911 and our officers will respond to assist  you,” he said.
HPD offers some safe reminders:

--Select a safer Christmas tree. Whether you prefer a real tree or an artificial one, you can make the safest choice. When purchasing a real tree, give it a shake, if the tree drops a lot of needles, it is probably dried out. Find a fresher tree and keep it watered to reduce the risk of fire. If you prefer an artificial tree, make sure it is certified fire resistant.

 --HPD also suggests that you give the gift of safety. Choose age appropriate gifts for kids on your holiday shopping list. Read the labels and stay within the suggested age ranges for holiday presents. With young children carefully inspect new toys and always read instructions before using.

--Another concern during busy holiday times is unattended cooking. This is the leading cause of home fires in the U.S. When cooking for holiday visitors, remember to keep an eye on the range.
--Use your burglar alarm system. If you plan to travel, do not discuss plans with strangers and have a trusted neighbor or friend keep an eye on your home.

 HPD also warns that criminals will sometimes deliberately cause minor car crashes in order to steal or rob the vehicle, also called “bump and rob” or carjacking.
If you are involved in a crash which seems suspicious, remain in your vehicle. Get as far from the road as possible and turn on your emergency flashers. Do not get out and inspect the car for damage or exchange information until a police officer arrives on the scene.
 For holiday vacations, make sure your vehicle is serviced before leaving for any repairs  that may be needed. Check spare tire and all fluid levels.
Parking safety advice from HPD says:

--When parking roll up windows, lock the vehicle and take the keys. Ensure that valuables are concealed, preferably in the trunk.
--During dark hours, park and walk in lighted areas to the extent possible.
--If you must leave valuables in your car while gone, place them out of sight before leaving, or move them inconspicuously. This includes packages, gym bags, MP3 players, GPS units, etc.

HPD warns that criminals are always looking for opportunities, therefore, avoid leaving packages in open sight. They also remind that a criminal may be watching what you are loading or unloading.
Do get distracted and leave wallets or purses unattended, even for a second. Keep them close to you, not on the seat next to you or in a shopping cart, HPD warns.

Wilson closes the HPD safety warning list with a holiday thought.
“It is my prayer that the first gift we provide this holiday season is an appreciation for our creator, and the second, a mutual respect for one another, God Bless you all and Merry Christmas,” he said.