MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif.-- Sheriffs Dept. issues Holiday safety tips.
The Holidays bring happiness and, unfortunately, a greater incidence of pickpockets, robberies, auto and home burglaries, and accidental poisoning and choking in children.
Shoppers:
* Shop with a companion - you will be safer and enjoy it more!
* Remember where your car is in a parking lot - mark it (antenna) with a balloon or a ribbon. When returning, be aware of your surroundings, look inside and then get in and lock the doors! Have your key ready as you approach the vehicle.
* If parking at night - park in a well-lighted area and close to the store entrance. Keep packages/gifts out of sight. Use the trunk. Cover with a blanket/cloth if a trunk is not available. If putting packages into the vehicle and returning to the store - always move - drive around for a minute - then park again. Thieves frequently wait in parking lots for shoppers "dropping off purchases."
* If burdened with packages or concerned about the parking lot, request an escort from store personnel or security.
* Place cash and credit cards in a difficult location for pickpockets and purse-snatchers.
* ATM's- A prime spot for robbers! Counting money and not paying attention to your surroundings is dangerous. Look before and after the transaction and proceed directly to your vehicle.
* If approached by a robber, cooperate, remain calm - surrender your valuables.
Child Safety:
* Poisonous if swallowed - Mistletoe, holly berries and Jerusalem cherries, and alcoholic drinks.
* Irritating to the mouth and stomach - Poinsettia plants, Christmas trees and most holiday plants. Also, alkaline batteries can leak and cause chemical burns.
* Choking hazards - Ornaments and batteries, especially the small "Button" batteries.
* Angel hair is made of a spun glass and can injure eyes, skin, stomach and intestines.
* Icicles and tinsel can obstruct breathing but are non-poisonous. Avoid hanging tinsel where a child can reach.
* Holiday candy and chocolates - May obstruct breathing and in large amounts are not healthy for children.
* Other hazards - Ribbon and wrapping paper, unattended wax candles and fireplaces.
