HOLIDAY SAFETY TIPS

The Christmas holidays are a great time to relax and enjoy time with family and friends however this is also the time of year where there is an increase in burglaries, assaults and other unfortunate events. Please have a read through the following tips to help keep you safe these holidays.

If going away on holiday:
– Lock your house securely
– Arrange to have your mail collected (or have the Post Office hold it for you)
– Cancel deliveries
– If you have a home phone, turn the volume down.
– Don’t leave a house key in obvious places
– Hide any valuables from sight

When driving:
– keep valuables out of sight
– keep your doors locked
– plan your route and let a friend/family member know when/where you are going
– make sure your phone is fully charged in case of a breakdown
– Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside
– When approaching your vehicle be aware of your surroundings and have your keys out and ready
– Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area

Drinking:
– don’t leave drinks unattended at parties
– have a plan on how you intend to get home safely
– don’t leave a venue with people you don’t know/trust
– don’t drink or drive
– Make sure you eat some food.
– Tip: Drink a glass of water in-between alcoholic drinks
– There is no problem in having a few drinks but be aware that if you become intoxicated, you become more vulnerable – know your safe limit

Children
– Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to a public bathroom
– Teach children to stay close to you when out shopping
– Teach children their full name, address and telephone number to give to Police Officers if required.
– Teach your children to tell you immediately if they are approached by a stranger or feel uncomfortable about a situation
– Teach your children about safer strangers. These are people they can go to for help if they become separated from you (ie: Police)
Please check out our website: youngdefenders.com.au for more helpful tips!

General
– when you are out and about be mindful of where the exits are.
– avoid carrying large amounts of cash
– be aware of your surroundings – avoid conflict or confrontation where possible
– if you become aware of someone else who is involved in conflict or confrontation, assess the situation before acting. Sometimes it is better to call the Police than get involved yourself. Things aren’t always what they seem.

BE MINDFUL, BE SAFE!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Ash