SUSSEX COUNTY, Del.-Â The holidays are here again and while it is a celebratory time, there are dangers and hazards to be aware of.
If you are hitting the road for the holidays, Rehoboth Beach Police Lieutenant Jaime Riddle says to make sure your home is as protected as possible.
"Please lock your doors," Riddle said. "Make sure your house is secure before you leave. Another thing that we can recommend is putting your Christmas lights or regular lights on timers so they come on routinely."
He says that routine will make it look like you are home so burglars are less likely to stop by.
If you celebrate Christmas, you likely have a tree in your living room. Lewes Fire Department Deputy Chief says whether real or artificial, there are things you can do to keep your tree from being a fire hazard.
"Not overload the power strips with lights," Gause said. "Try to divvy out the electrical needs for any lights or decorations that you might have. Keep the Christmas tree watered. That really helps the needles to become less flammable."
When you are cooking that meal for the family, Senior Instructor at the Delaware Fire School Mike Lowe says to always keep an eye on your appliances.
"The third biggest day for home fires is Christmas Eve," Lowe said. "So we want to be careful and just general knowledge, nothing new. Just pay attention and try not to get distracted. Distractions are the biggest cause for home fires."
From protecting your home to protecting your personal information. State of Delaware Chief Security Officer Solomon Adote says if you are still doing some online shopping, take the time to make sure emails are legitimate.
"Can I send you an email that your package is delayed, click here and check the new time," Adote said. "You click there and it asks for information to validate yourself and that's how they are getting the details."
Security experts say if an email or online shopping website looks fishy, it probably is. When in doubt, contact the business or retailer directly before ever giving away personal information online.
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