The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) is reminding Hoosiers to take the extra precautions to avoid a Grinch ruining their holidays. This includes being smart about what information is posted to social media.
“If traveling over the holiday season, especially for an extended period of time, do not discuss your plans with strangers or post them to social media sites,” said John Erickson, IDHS director of public affairs. “You could become a target for thieves.”
Hoosiers traveling this holiday season should also take these steps to help ensure the security of all items in the home.
- When away, have a trusted friend or neighbor keep an eye on the home.
- Use light timers to turn on lights or a TV when away to give the appearance someone is home.
- Use window coverings such as curtains or blinds to decrease visibility into the home.
- Label valuable items, such as stereos, computers, movie players, and televisions with an identification number unique to the owner.
- Create an up-to-date home inventory list, and store it in a secure location.
Weather can vary greatly in the Midwest, and IDHS also recommends planning ahead when traveling by car this holiday season. Consider putting together an emergency travel kit and checking supplies already stored in vehicles:
- Bottled water
- Shovel
- Sand or kitty litter
- Extra blankets
- A hand crank flashlight or battery powered flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables
- Chargers for cell phones and mobile devices
- Nonperishable food
- First-aid kit
For more holiday safety and winter weather tips visit GetPrepared.IN.gov. Follow IDHS on Twitter @idhs and on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/IndianaDHS/.
