It's the Most Dangerous Time of the Year

Historically the cooler seasons are the most deadly and dangerous months of the year. To be fair, it’s not hard to imagine why that might be: illness seems to be more prevalent, bad weather is always a factor, and there’s typically less light out. Add to the fact that it is a heavily festive season, and other factors come into play. Here’s some quick safety reminders to get you through the next few months.

Home Safety Measures

• Ensure all windows and doors are secure and lock properly.

• Candles – never leave unattended and keep away from flammable objects.

• Keep Christmas trees away from heat sources, and keep live trees watered.

• Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working.

• Check holiday lights for frayed wires, and do not overload electrical outlets.

• Heat sources – keep clear and dust free.

• Keep rain gutters and drains clear of debris, leaves, and branches.

Stay Alert + Use Common Sense

• Park in well-lit areas.

• Consider shopping with a group or a friend.

• Do not keep valuables in the car. If you do, ensure they are out of sight or secured in your trunk.

• Be cautious in public. If you see something, report it to be looked into. If something feels off, trust your gut, get to safety, and figure out the bad vibe later.

Health & Well-Being

• Wash your hands with soap and warm water frequently.

• Consider appropriate vaccines for the season.

• Consider masking in public, especially if you are sick and must go out.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Pay attention to your fruit and veggie intake (make sure you’re getting enough).

• Get out for fresh air and exercise. This can be really hard when it’s cold outside and the weather is bleak. The best thing I heard when it came to unfavorable weather and getting out for a walk: “There’s no such thing as  bad weather, only bad clothing.” This is the truth! Make sure you have the proper footwear and clothing for your weather, and you might actually find your outdoor stroll to be enjoyable.

On the road

• Make sure you are taking your car in for general maintenance as it needs it: tire rotations, oil changes, brakes, filters, etc. Taking care of the small things on time and with regularity generally keeps the big problems away.

• Make sure your windshield wipers are in good condition. If not, get them replaced.

• Ensure all of your lights are working.

• Ensure you have adequate car insurance.

• Do not drink while under the influence of anything. Make space in the budget for an Uber, Lyft, Waymo, taxi, or designated driver.

• Wear a seat belt at all times.

• Make sure kids and their car seats or booster seats are properly secure.

• Always look in your backset to make sure you are not forgetting your kids.

• Do not leave pets in the car.

Financial Safety

This season is notorious for identity theft and scams so protect your finances by:

• Using virtual card numbers where you are able to.

• Keeping a secure hold on your wallet and cards at all times.

• Checking your accounts weekly (daily for me) to report any fraudulent transactions immediately.

• Never leave account information or check books out where anyone can see them, even in your home. Ensure they are secure so that someone would have to actively be snooping around to find this information.

• Check your coverages: health, life, car, home, etc. insurances. If you don’t have these insurances in place, get them in place ASAP.

• Update beneficiaries, addresses, contact information, etc. on all accounts, policies, wills, etc.

• Heart attacks and critical illnesses are not uncommon during this time of the year so consider adding critical illness policies to your insurance pie to offset medical bills and potential required time off of work that may come from  something like this.

The last financial tip is to create a budget and stick to it. Do not go into this season as if your money is unlimited. You do not want to find yourself cringing on January 1^st while recovering from your hangover about all the debt you’re in, and then make a New Year’s resolution to get your finances in order. Get them in order now, keep them in order, and strengthen them in January and beyond. If you have not already downloaded the 50-30-20 PDF, this is the universe telling you to get it now.