6 Simple Safety Tips to Follow This Christmas
Christmas is one of those holidays you can celebrate the entire month.. and I do! I can’t wait for ice skating, hot cocoa, cozy fires and spending time with family.
I love choosing special gifts for my family and like many other people, preparation usually involves trips to the mall and grocery store. With the added hustle and bustle at shopping centers, it’s the perfect time to remember good safety habits.
Here are five tips to keep you safe this Christmas:
1. Carry a self-protection tool
For those who conceal carry, this probably means a firearm but non-lethal tools like pepper spray or a stun gun are also good options. Make sure to keep the tool somewhere you can access quickly, like a holster on your body, a pocket, or a purse with a separate holster pocket. If you must dig for it, you may as well leave it at home. One advantage of carrying your firearm in a coat pocket or purse is that while returning to your car you can have your hand on the firearm and ready without anyone noticing.
2. Lock the car and house door immediately
Practice this enough that it becomes second nature. It’s common to get distracted with shopping bags or your phone once in the car. Locking the door right away can prevent an attacker from taking advantage of the situation.
3. Strategic Parking
Park in a well-lit area away from trees, bushes, landscaping or other structures that provide a place for assailants to hide. Backing into a parking space makes it easier when you’re ready to leave, because your car is already facing the direction you need to drive. This is especially helpful if you need to make a quick exit.
4. Scan the area
When you walk out of a building, look up and do a quick scan of the area to observe any potential threats. Are there people in the parking lot? Is anyone near your car? If you feel uneasy, go back into the store and ask an associate to accompany you.
5. Avoid your cell phone
Looking down cuts off your peripheral vision and could make you an easy target. While walking or standing in public try to stay off your phone to avoid this. If you must use it, put your back up to a wall so no one can sneak up behind you and hold the phone a little higher than normal so you’ll notice anyone approaching.
6. Confident body language
Make sure to have good posture and walk with purpose. If you’re alone when passing someone on the street, make sure to look them in the eyes. Saying “Hello” in a friendly, strong voice will let them know you are alert, confident, and not an easy target.
Be alert and enjoy the holiday season. Stay safe friends!
