Ed. Note: The following is a news release provided by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has released a series of tips to help residents in and around the Santa Clarita Valley be safe for the holidays.

The holidays should be a happy, carefree time, when we enjoy and take part in the caring generosity of those around us.

Unfortunately, there are those that take advantage of festive attitudes, and use this time to commit crimes against those unsuspecting victims.

Here are some safety tips to lessen the chance that you will become one of these victims:

In-Home Safety Tips:

• Before hanging lights and electrical decorations, inspect cords, bulbs, etc., for damage.
• Do not overload outlets with too many devices.
• Do not stack gifts, decorations or furniture close to outlets.
• Remember to water your Christmas tree — a fresh, green tree poses less of a fire hazard than a dry tree.
• Keep space heaters at least three-feet from anything that can burn.

Holiday Travel Safety Tips:

• Avoid driving alone or at night.
• Do not leave packages or valuable in plain sight when you leave your car.
• Be sure to have keys in hand prior to going to your car.
• Keep a secure hold on your purse and packages.
• Make sure your tires have a healthy amount of tread before traversing wet roads.
• Always be aware, drive sober and stay alert.

Target-Harden Your Home:

• Always lock up your house when leaving, even if only for a few minutes.
• Have a neighbor watch your house and pick up newspapers when you leave for an extended period of time.
• Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through windows of your home.
• Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children or pets cannot knock it over.

Holiday Party Safety Tips:

• Have non-alcoholic drinks available for party guests.
• Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests.
• Have something to eat before consuming alcoholic beverages.

Online Shopping Safety Tips:

• Use credit — not debit — to shield from false charges.
• Use a secure password.
• Ask your bank for a temporary card for the holiday season.
• Use Hotspot Shield for a secure WiFi connection.
• Don’t give unnecessary information — nobody needs your Social Security number.