While the holiday season is time for celebration, it is also a time for potential dangers, including home fires and porch thefts.
With certain crimes and hazards on the rise both nationally and in the Savannah area around the holiday season, law enforcement agencies are offering best practices to stay safe.
Savannah Police Department Cpl. Rebekah Helmick, who also serves as SPD Central Precinct Neighborhood Resource Officer, said there is an uptick in package thefts and entering autos, with people leaving their gifts or toys in their vehicles.
Helmick added that residents leave gifts, such as televisions or video game systems, outside. She advises residents to put those gifts in places less visible, like a trunk or inside the house.
“That would be a tip is to not leave [toys] visible,” said Helmick. “In a trunk would be fine, if you’re able to secure it.”
Chatham County Police Department Public Information Officer Betsy Nolen sent a list of holiday crime prevention tips that included asking a trusted neighbor to watch your home, tracking your packages, sign up to receive alerts when they are delivered, and beware of social media requests for donations, as they may be scams.
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Fire safety during holiday season
Seven people in this country lose their lives to a fire in their home every day, according to American Red Cross statistics from 2023. With this in mind, the American Red Cross has also released a list of holiday safety tips.
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Check to make sure whether your lights are designed for indoor or outdoor use, or for where you are decorating.
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Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the number of light strands you can safely connect.
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Use clips, not nails, to hang lights so the cords do not get damaged.
The American Red Cross also offered tree safety tips and candles and home fires preventative measures.
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Ensure the tree is at least three feet away from a heat source, such as radiators, fireplaces, candles, or heat vents or lights.
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Add water to the tree daily.
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Don’t use lit candles to decorate the tree and turn off the tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.
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If buying an artificial tree, seek a fire-resistant label.
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Think about using flameless candles.
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Blow out all candles when you leave the room or go to bed.
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Avoid using candles in the bedroom and other areas where people may fall asleep.
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Keep candles at least 1 foot away from any source that can burn.
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Use candle holders that are sturdy and won’t tip over easily.
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Don’t burn a candle all the way down.
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If oxygen is used in the home, don’t use a candle.
The American Red Cross also advised to place smoke alarms on each level of your home, and test your alarms once per month, and change the batteries at least once per year.
Drew Favakeh is the public safety and courts reporter for Savannah Morning News. You can reach him at AFavakeh@savannahnow.com.
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Savannah police department offers tips for holiday season hazards
