Stay safe this holiday period!

With several busy days ahead for the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, the Oconee County Sheriff’s Office is offering safety tips as you prepare to celebrate.  Jimmy Watt, Public Information Officer for the Sheriff’s Office, says, “If you do plan on traveling, there are things you can do before you hit the road to help make your vehicle safe.  First, make sure that your tires are properly inflated, all of your vehicle fluids are clean and full and make sure your brakes, hoses, belts and your battery are in good shape.  Secondly, plan out your trip and make sure to know the routes you will be taking and the time you will leaving to travel.  Call ahead and let your family and friends know that you are leaving and make them aware of the route you will be using and your estimated time of arrival.  Make sure you cell phones have a full battery as well in case you have to call for help.” P.I.O. Watt also reminds those who are traveling to continue to expect an increased law enforcement presence right on through the New Year’s weekend and to make sure to have a designated driver and don’t drink and drive.  Also, make sure that everyone in your vehicle is wearing their seatbelts.” If you are going to be away from home, Oconee County Sheriff Mike Crenshaw is offering these tips before you travel to help protect your home and property:

·        Create an up-to-date home inventory and photographs of items of value including jewelry, valuables and electronics.   Make sure to include name, make, model and serial numbers of those items if they have them.  Keep these items in a safe location outside of the house.

·        Use timers on your lights and TV sets to give the appearance that someone is home.

·        Motion detectors and any alarm systems should be activated even if they are not registered with law enforcement.

·        Stop mail and newspaper deliveries or arrange for a trusted family member, friend or neighbor to pick them up for you.

·        Have a trusted family member, friend or neighbor to keep an eye on your house or property or make arrangements for someone you trust to house sit for you.

·        Even if you have an alarm system, make sure that your doors and windows are locked.

·        Contact the Sheriff’s Office or your local law enforcement agency to request extra patrols if you are out town.  These are available based on officer availability and amount of calls for service that officers are currently working.

 

Sheriff Crenshaw is offering these safety tips if you have some shopping to do either before or after Christmas:

·        Shop with more than one person and if you shop during the evening, park in an area with adequate lighting.

·        Be aware of your surroundings at all times.

·        Lock all presents and valuables in your trunk, including purses if you don’t carry them with you.  Keep tracks of your purses and wallets and secure them on your person.

·        Limit the amount of cash you carry.

·        Shop with only one credit card if possible.

Report suspicious people or activity to law enforcement immediately.  If you see something, say something!