Tis the season to be jolly, but prominent managers in the
electronic security industry are also trying to spread the
word that it is also the season to be sure to be safe.
Among them is NAPCO Security Systems Chairman and CEO
Richard Soloway, who says the holidays are as busy time for
thieves and burglars as they are for shoppers and elves.

Among his tips, published in the Post-Standard:

• Keep your doors locked. Don’t hide extra keys in a
  mailbox or over a doorway.

• Know your neighbors.

• Trim trees and hedges to eliminate places to hide.

• Close curtains, so you don’t expose a Christmas tree
  with gifts underneath.

The COO of Union, N.J. electronic security provider Supreme
Security Systems, David Bitton, offers an extensive list of
tips to keep the holidays safe in a top-10 list. Among
them:

• 1. Place Christmas trees out of harm’s way to avoid
  unnecessary fires this holiday season. Make sure your
  Christmas tree is kept far away from fireplaces, radiators,
  and other heat sources, and be sure to keep plenty of water
  in the tree stand. If you’re opting for an artificial tree
  this year, double-check that it is “fire resistant.” Always
  make sure your tree does not block a doorway or emergency
  exit.

• 2. Be cautious with candles. Make sure candles are kept
  away from drapes or other articles that can easily catch on
  fire. Make sure they are also high enough so they can’t
  easily be knocked over or touched by children.

• 3. Turn off your lights. Be sure to turn off all lights
  (indoors and out) before you leave the house or go to bed
  and never use lights that have broken bulbs or frayed wires.

• 4. Be careful what you put in the fireplace. Avoid
  burning gift wrap or paper in the fireplace as flying
  embers can cause a chimney fire.

• 5. Do not overload outlets. Never overload electrical
  outlets and if multiple outlets are needed, be sure to use
  surge protectors.

• 6. Know where the fire extinguishers are kept. Know
  where the fire extinguisher is kept at all times and
  understand how to use it.

• 7. Pick your decorations carefully. Use only
  noncombustible or flame-resistant decorations and avoid
  decorations that are sharp or breakable.

• 8. Keep your windows and doors locked. Since property
  crime rates are highest during the holiday season, it’s
  important to keep vulnerable points of entry – such as
  windows and doors – locked when you are away from your home.

• 9. Ask for a little neighborly help. If you’re leaving
  town this season, ask a neighbor or friend to keep an eye
  on your residence and be sure to cancel mail and newspaper
  delivery until you return.

• 10. Invest in technology. Smoke detectors, sprinkler
  systems, fire and burglar alarms, and CCTV systems can go a
  long way in helping to ensure the safety and security of
  your home. Monitor and test your fire/life safety and
  security systems once again this holiday season to ensure
  they work properly and meet your specific needs and
  requirements.

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