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Community Corner

Home, Personal Safety Important on New Year's Eve

Law enforcement officers say that besides securing a designated driver, those heading out to ring in the new year should make sure to keep themselves and their belongings safe.

Local residents heading out to parties or to spend the night at a hotel either in or in Atlanta can take a few steps to keep their homes safe while they're gone, law enforcement officers said.

An extra patrol can be requested of both the and as a way for officers to drive by the homes several times during their shifts. Other tips for home safety are leaving lights on, bringing in mail and asking neighbors to keep an eye on the property.

"Sometime I’ll leave a TV on so it seems like someone’s home," CPD Sgt. M.K. Bettikofer said.

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If you're out for the evening, officers recommend limiting the amount of cash in your wallet and not carrying other valuable items, such as jewelry.

"Sometimes there are people out there taking advantage of people who don’t usually drink much," Bettikofer said.

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If you do drink, officers said to find a designated driver. Patrols will be beefed up for the holiday and road checks could be held.

"(We) make sure the roads are as safe as possible," BCSO Sgt. Jonathan Rogers said. 

For those shooting off fireworks to celebrate the new year, here are some safety tips from TNT:

  • Take precautions: Always keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies;
  • Light one at a time: Never light two or more fireworks or sparklers at the same time;
  • Keep it outside: Only use fireworks and sparklers outdoors on flat, hard surfaces in clear areas and away from houses, buildings and dry grass;
  • Have adult supervision: Never allow young children to light or handle fireworks or sparklers. Be aware of the minimum permitted age in your state. Adults should always be present when lighting or handling fireworks or sparklers;
  • Stay alert: Never mix alcohol or other substances with fireworks or sparklers;
  • Stay clear: Never hold a lit firework in your hand. Keep as far from them as possible when lighting;
  • Let sleeping fireworks lie: Never try to relight fireworks or sparklers that do not ignite. Wait 15 to 20 minutes before approaching them, then soak them with water and throw them away;
  • Protect your pets: Animals are often frightened by the sounds of fireworks. Protect your “best friends” by keeping them indoors, secure and away from the loud, sudden noises;
  • Check local and state legislation to identify which products are legal and only purchase those permitted by law;
  • and check the label and instructions on fireworks and sparklers to ensure they come from a reliable, legal and licensed source. 
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