Holiday Home Safety Tips During the holiday months home safety tips are always a good thing to share. Here are some tips to help keep you and your family safe:

Kitchen - Keep your stovetop clear of spills and built-up grease that can catch fire. Replace dip pans if needed.  Do not place pot holders or towel racks close to the range. Never leave food unattended. Never use water to put a grease fire out.                    

Electrical Outlets - Never run extension cords under rugs or carpets or looped over nails or other sharp objects that could cause them to fray.

Storage - Never store papers or other items near the water heater, or other heat sources

Smoke Alarms – Test smoke detectors once a month to make sure they’re still working. If it starts to beep please contact the office so that we may change your battery. Occasionally vacuum smoke alarm to remove dust and debris. Never dismantle smoke alarm. If you have any question please call us at 1(877) 244-3907.

Holiday Tree Safety

A dry cut evergreen tree can become a raging inferno in seconds. Follow these safety precautions to ensure that the only things burning brightly are your spirits.

Water- Never let a cut tree dry out. Check the tree stand's water reservoir on a daily basis, particularly when you first bring the tree into your home. If the water does fall below the bottom of the tree, even for a few minutes, re-cut the trunk about an inch up.                              

Location- Place the tree well away from heat sources like stoves, and hot air vents.Use only approved lights. Look for the UL seal on all Christmas lights. Look for indoor use only light that do not put off heat. Never allow candles near a tree.                                                        

Removal- When removing your tree remember to wrap it in a tree bag/sheet. This will prevent the needles from falling off in the hallway and your apartment.

Holiday Shopping Safety Tips 

 The Newport News Police Department encourages citizens to be alert and cautious while shopping, especially during the holiday seasons. Here are some important safety tips to keep in mind: Shop in and around familiar areas that have security.  Avoid shopping alone - if you do shop alone, let someone know your expected location and time of return. Know who you're dealing with (in person or via the phone or computer).                                          

Park in well-lit areas when shopping at night and ask security to escort you to your vehicle. Keep your vehicle locked at all times and set your alarm. Never leave items in your vehicle that are visible to the public. Keep your hands free and avoid carrying an excessive number of packages. Have your vehicle key in hand and ready when walking to your car. Scan the area surrounding your vehicle both when you park and when you return to your vehicle. Visually check the back seat of your vehicle before opening the door and getting in. The holiday season is a busy time for all, so please take a little time to plan your outings. 

The St. Andrews Staff would like to wish you and your family a festive and safe Holiday Season!