Staying safe during the Christmas holidays

Christmas is a time when everyone looks forward to spending time with the loved ones and eating and drinking during the holidays. Even though this is the time to relax and have fun, there are also many important things to remember.

Fire safety information

• Don't overload plug sockets with Christmas lights/plugs etc
  
• Always make sure you switch off and unplug all Christmas lights before leaving the house or before going to bed – it will stop attracting potential burglars
  
• Ensure you have fire proof decorations – as normal decorations can burn easily if placed on heaters
  
• Never leave burning candles or tea-lights unattended – always keep out of reach of children
  
• Check to make sure your smoke alarm is working
  
• Make sure all exits doors are clear and not cluttered with rubbish or boxes
  
• Never leave cooking unattended
  
• Make sure cigarettes are extinguished before leaving a room or going to bed
  
• If you use fireworks then follow the firework code and keep away from children, animals or objects – always handle with care

For further information visit the London Fire Brigade website: http://www.london-fire.gov.uk/index.asp

Read more about fire prevention on the Directgov website:
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/InYourHome/index.htm
In the event of a fire call 999 and ask for the fire brigade.

Keeping safe and secure in your home
Find out about how to keep safe and secure in your home by reducing the risk of fire, ensuring that your electrical equipment is safe and some easy tips to make your home secure.

Please note: Always remember to keep presents or personal belongings out of sight from windows (especially in cars).

Always think of your neighbours
Older people who live alone and have reduced mobility are more likely to be hurt in a fire or are easy targets for criminals. Why not visit an older relative or neighbour this Christmas and make sure they are safe.

We mustn’t forget that during the Christmas time people still fall victim to hate crime or domestic violence. Find out how Peabody can help and who to contact in an emergency.

If you are alone this Christmas and feeling vulnerable, distressed or in despair, you can always call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 or visit the website for more information: http://www.samaritans.org/?gclid=CNLByPzw554CFeZr4wodzVYzJw
If you are alone and would like to find out about events taking place in your local area during Christmas then contact you local authority or local church.

Don't get scammed this Christmas
The festive season is a time when people are likely to fall victim to scams that promise quick and easy cash rewards.

The Office of Fair Trading (OFT) is urging vulnerable groups, including older people, single parents and families on low incomes, to beware of scammers this Christmas.

Common scams to be wary of include bogus lotteries, deceptive prize draws and fake psychics. Scammers are also likely to prey on people wanting to slim down for the Christmas season with miracle slimming products.

Read the OFT's top 10 tips to avoid being scammed this Christmas:

• be suspicious of unsolicited letters, phone calls, or emails asking you to send money – check out the sender and ask the opinion of family, friends or neighbours
  
• if an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is – trust your gut instincts
  
• never send money to anyone who says you've won the lottery or a big prize – you'll never see your promised winnings
  
• never ring an 090 number unless you're certain how much the call will cost and know what you are likely to receive
  
• never disclose your bank account, credit card or personal details to people you don't know
  
• don't suffer scams in silence, get help - contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 for advice or visit the Consumer Direct website

Also remember:

• seasonal rogue traders are about – always ask for ID and don’t let anyone into your home without an appointment - contact Trading Standards if you are concerned
  
• don’t accept doorstep loans
  
• never take bogus taxi drivers - text HOME to
  http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/gettingaround/taxisandminicabs/taxis/default.aspx
  
• to beware of ‘hugger muggers’ targeting drunk people in central London
  
• pickpockets are around in busy winter sales
  

For further information about how to avoid being scammed visit the Directgov website: http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Nl1/Newsroom/ChristmasHolidays/DG_173323

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