By: Romila BoodramIt may be the most wonderful time of the year,Cheap NFL Jerseys Wholesale, but it’s also the time for increased crime, fires,Wholesale NFL Jerseys, and accidents outside and within the home.Kaieteur News spoke to police, fire and health officials who offered several tips for a safer Christmas.RobberiesAs if holiday shopping isn’t stressful enough, taking extra precautions against pick-pockets, burglars and bandits can seem like a burden.However, a few preventable actions can help persons to avoid becoming victims of crime.During the holiday season, the Guyana Police Force is calling on all persons to be extra careful as they go about their shopping.“Thieves often prey on those doing holiday shopping because they know that they have cash on them,” a police officer noted.He said that as much as possible, shop in the daytime with at least one other person and where necessary, park in well-lit areas, and near other vehicles.Owners of small cars should avoid parking next to large vehicles- Bigger cars can block their vehicles from view, providing cover for thieves and possibly causing hindrances in the case of an emergency.The police officer advised persons to keep their wallets or purses close to their body, and limit the amount of cash they carry to what they’ll need for the shopping trip.“Don’t become complacent while in the store. Notice the people around you, and don’t load yourself down with bags. Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. You will be ready to unlock the door and will not be delayed by fumbling and looking for your keys.”According to the officer, drivers should make sure all windows are rolled up and doors are locked when exiting the vehicle, and consider purchasing an alarm or other security devices like a steering wheel lock that are made to deter car break-ins and hijackings.The accident in Berbice in which two persons were burnt to death. Inset: Neru Bankay.“Petty thieves are attracted to expensive phones so people should keep their devices hidden when they are in public and don’t wait until Christmas Eve to do last minute shopping because that’s when it’s crowded and most pick-pockets happen,” the officer advised.As it relates to home invasion, the police officer is advising neighbours to keep an eye out for each other as this can save lives.“When you see strange people in your neighbourhood, call up your friends and neighbours and warn each other. When you are leaving,Cheap Jerseys, secure your home- if you have to put 20 padlocks on your door, don’t hesitate.”On December 15, last, neighbours prevented a major tragedy from happening in Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD).One of two bandits was shot by police just after robbing a 50-year-old woman,Wholesale Stitched Jerseys, Cheryl Embrack. Neighbours saw two men in the yard with the woman and immediately called the police.“We know Christmas is once a year but your life and safety are important…”Road users“While Christmas is a time for us to be merry, it is important for us to stay alive so that our year ahead can be prosperous, fruitful and we all can be happy, and enjoy 2016 with no more deaths on the road,” Traffic Chief Dion Moore urges.For pedestrians, it is best to use sidewalks, avenues and pavements. Where there is none, walk on the right hand side of the road to face the oncoming traffic and remember that moving vehicles need time to slow down and stop.Safety rules for drivers“Do not pass vehicles stopped at crosswalks as they may be allowing a pedestrian to cross the street. Leave sufficient space when passing vulnerable road users and take every possible precaution to avoid collision and watch for surprising changes in direction especially by children or cyclist avoiding road hazards,” the traffic department advised.According to Moore,China Jersyes Cheap, it is the festive season and during this time persons would usually consume alcohol.“We must be responsible, if you imbibe alcohol, do not consume in excess. If you drink and have to drive after, then get a designated driver or drink at home.”For the year so far 118 persons were killed in road accidents with the latest being an accident at Bush Lot, West Coast Berbice (WCB) where two persons were burnt to death and four others injured as a result of a head-on collision on the public road.Protect your home against fire this seasonWhen most people think of the Christmas holiday, they think of family, fun and cheer. But firefighters across the country want to remind people that through all of the excitement, there is an increased risk of home fires.Fire Prevention Officer of the Guyana Fire Service, Andrew Holder advises persons to check the amperage (measurement of electricity