Keeping Your Family Safe During the Holidays

The holidays are a time of happiness, cookies, cocoa, and family. However, in some cases, it is also a time of break-ins, theft, and heartbreak. Keeping your family safe from danger during the holidays is important. It will preserve the memories of the festive season and allow you to rest easy. Investing in home security systems in Jackson, CA, is a great first step. However, there is more that can be done. If you are unsure how to prepare your family and keep things secure, here are a few tips to review with them when it comes to safety this season:

1. Don't carry cash while out shopping. Paying for things with cash is a great idea for keeping on a budget. However, it can also make you a target for theft. By pulling out a wad of cash every time you roll up to the check out, you might be attracting the attention of some unsavory characters. If you plan to shop in-store for gifts this year, choose to pay with a card. Then, keep your card secure. If carrying cash is unavoidable, don't carry large amounts of money at one time. If something does happen, at least you won't lose all of your cash. One of the most secure ways to shop this season, however, is online. That way, your identity and your money can remain more secure.
2. Never provide personal information over the phone or in an email. During the holidays, scammers are working their hardest. If you receive a strange voicemail or email requesting personal information, report it. You should never provide bank information, Social Security info, or other private information to anyone you don't know and trust. If you receive a voicemail or email claiming that you have won a prize, be careful—if it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is. Don't be fooled. Use your best judgment and protect your identity.
3. Don't open the door for strangers. Stranger danger is constantly taught to children. However, it is equally as important for adults. During the holiday season especially, be extremely careful of strangers who might come knocking. If you don't know them and they come to your home asking for directions or a lost animal, don't be afraid to keep the door closed. In the even that someone comes to your door trying to raise funds for charity, ask for proof and then proceed with caution.
4. Install the proper security equipment. An alarm system is one of the largest deterrents for thieves when it comes to home invasions. By installing cameras and an alarm, law enforcement will be notified if there is any perceived threat. Be sure to place a sign in your front yard letting passersby know that you are protected.
5. Teach your children what to do in case of an emergency. Do your kids know what to do if there is an emergency and you aren't at home? Make sure your children have access to a phone when you leave them alone. They will need to know how to call for help. Having them memorize important phone numbers and their home address is also vital. Also, be sure to create an emergency escape plan with them as well. As with a fire drill, practice it often so that they are prepared.

Keeping your family safe during the holidays doesn't have to be intense or scary. In fact, it's the small things that will keep your loved ones safe and happy, like installing home security systems in Jackson, CA. Take the time to sit down together and discuss how to handle things during the next few months. By discussing the correct measures to take in the event of an emergency, and reviewing safety protocol, you and your family will enjoy a happy and stress-free holiday together. 

Source : articlesbase.com