The holiday shopping season is a peak time for crimes such as home burglaries and thefts. The Parker Police Department recommends the following to help prevent you from becoming the victim of a crime:
At Home
Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows at all times.
Don't display gifts where they can be seen from a window or doorway.
If you go out in the evening, turn on your lights and television so the house looks occupied.
If on vacation, get an automatic timer for your lights. Ask a neighbor or friend to watch your house.
Don't advertise the new electronics by putting the boxes out on the curb for the garbage collectors.
Shopping
Stay alert to your surroundings and the people around you.
If possible, shop before dark and with a friend.
Keep packages and other valuables out of public view, preferably locked in the trunk.
Lock your car doors and windows.
To discourage purse snatchers, don't overburden yourself with packages.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
In addition, the South Metro Fire Rescue Authority is urging people to look for and eliminate potential dangers from home holiday decorations that could lead to fires and injuries. They recommend the following:
Trees
If buying an artificial tree, buy only “fire resistant” trees approved by Underwriter’s Laboratories (UL). “Fire Resistant” does not mean fire proof; only that it is harder to ignite and easier to extinguish.
Buy only a fresh, green real tree. Fresh tree’s needles are hard to pull from branches and when bent between your fingers the needles should not break.
Keep real trees moist and green by placing them in water; cut a few inches off the trunk before placing in water for better absorption.
Place all trees away from fireplaces, radiators, furnaces and other heat sources.
Do not burn real trees after Christmas; throw them in the garbage, take them to a local tree recycling event or take them to the dump.
Holiday Lighting
Use only lights that are UL listed and have fused plugs.
Do not use lights that have frayed, spliced or damaged wires.
Use no more than three standard-size strands of lights per single extension cord.
Fasten outdoor lights with appropriately designed fasteners. Do not use nails or tacks.
Turn off lights when going to bed or away from the home.
By following these guidelines, we can all make sure that the only thing making your house stand out in the neighborhood are your beautiful decorations and not a fire. For more information call the South Metro Fire Rescue Authority at 720.488.7200. Be sure to have a safe and happy holiday season!