Tips for Keeping Safe this Holiday Season

In this week’s RepublicanHerald, Scranton officials gave tips for keeping safe this holiday season.
Shopping
It’s wise to keep your packages and purchased items out of site and in the trunk of your car when shopping. Acting Scranton police chief says, “Most of our holiday crime seems to come from packages in cars, that seems to be a big thing. This time of year, with people bouncing from store to store, they tend to leave packages in plain view.”
When shopping, don’t carry cash unless it’s absolutely necessary. Cash can’t be traced once it’s taken. Officials advise using credit cards, as their transactions can be cancelled easier.
When shopping online, be sure to protect your personal and financial information, as anyone can set up an online shop under almost any name. The Federal Trade Commission recommends that you know who you are dealing with and to look for a Secure Checkout while shopping. Be sure the website starts with “https” as the “s” stands for “secure.” For more holiday online shopping tips, go to OnguardOnline.gov/SmartShopper.
Fire Hazards
Be sure your Christmas tree is saturated with water at the base and place them in the center of a room, rather than near walls or drapes. Be sure to turn the lights off before you leave home.
According to the article, the National Fire Protection Association recommends that trees are placed at least 3 feet away from fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents, or lights. They should not block an exit.

Replace any lights that have worn or broken cords, loose bulbs, or connections. Don’t connect more than three strands of lights and be sure lights are approved for indoor use.
Also, be sure your electric service can handle the amount of amps that your decorations require.

In the article, Scranton’s fire chief said an increase of fire-related incidents seem to come from untended boilers, dry Christmas trees, and auxiliary heating units.

Follow these tipst to have a happy and safe holiday!