The festive season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but it is also a period that can present unique safety challenges. With increased travel, bustling crowds, and heightened activities, staying vigilant and prioritising your well-being is essential.
Whether shopping, attending events, or hosting gatherings, a few practical tips can help you navigate the season safely while ensuring your festivities remain memorable for all the right reasons.
In this piece, PUNCH Online highlights valuable tips to keep you and your loved ones safe indoors and outdoors during the festive period.
1. Be Alert in Crowded Areas
Crowded places such as markets and events are common during the festive period. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
2. Secure Your Home
Install security systems, lock all doors and windows, and inform trusted neighbours if you will be away.
3. Avoid Oversharing on Social Media
Posting your travel plans or expensive purchases can make you a target for burglars or scammers.
4. Drive Carefully
Roads tend to be busier during the holidays. Follow traffic rules, avoid driving under the influence, and plan trips during the day if possible.
5. Shop Responsibly
Use trusted vendors, avoid late-night shopping, and ensure your online transactions are done on secure platforms.
6. Stay Healthy
Avoid overindulgence in food and drinks. Also, maintain proper hygiene to prevent the spread of illnesses during gatherings.
7. Plan Your Finances
Create a budget to avoid overspending. Be cautious of scams or unsolicited investment offers.
8. Be Vigilant About Fire Safety
Inspect holiday lights, candles, and cooking appliances. Ensure fire extinguishers and smoke alarms are functional.
9. Keep Emergency Numbers Handy
Save contact numbers for local police, fire services, and emergency medical services for quick access.
10. Practise COVID-19 Safety
At crowded events, consider wearing a mask if needed, and maintain hygiene by washing hands or using hand sanitisers.
In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Online, the Lagos State Public Enlightenment Officer for the Federal Road Safety Commission, Route Commander Elizabeth Oluwadamilola Jayeola, shared vital safety precautions for the festive season.
She noted, “The festive season is a time of joy, travel, and heightened road activities. However, it is also a period when road accidents tend to increase due to factors like speeding, fatigue, and general disregard for traffic laws.
“To ensure safety, motorists and commuters must take deliberate steps to prioritise their safety on the road.”
Tips for Motorists:
1. Ensure your vehicle is in optimal condition by checking brakes, tyres, engine oil, lights, and wipers. Fix any faults promptly to avoid breakdowns or accidents.
2. Adhere strictly to speed limits and adjust based on road and weather conditions.
3. Avoid distractions, such as using your phone while driving. Stay focused on the road.
4. Fatigue impairs judgment. Ensure you are well-rested before embarking on any journey.
5. Start trips early to avoid night travel, which carries higher risks due to reduced visibility.
6. Respect your vehicle’s load-carrying capacity to ensure control and balance.
7. Prioritise passengers’ safety and comfort over profit.
Tips for Commuters:
1. Speak up against reckless driving.
2. Patronise reputable and well-maintained transport companies or vehicles.
3. Avoid boarding vehicles driven by drunken drivers.
4. Always fasten your seatbelt, even as a passenger.
5. Motorcyclists should always wear helmets.
6. Stay focused while riding and avoid distractions.
7. Report unsafe driving to relevant authorities.
8. Avoid last-minute trips to reduce rushed decisions and risk.
Similarly, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority Public Relations Officer, Adebayo Taofiq, outlined proactive strategies to ensure seamless traffic flow and safety during the Yuletide season.
“These strategies include stakeholder engagement, community enlightenment campaigns, media sensitisation, and enhanced deployment of officers to manage traffic hotspots. LASTMA has also provided heavy-duty towing vehicles for prompt responses to breakdowns and emergencies”, he stated.
Taofiq added that the agency is collaborating with the FRSC on public awareness campaigns and engaging market leaders to ensure traders do not encroach on pedestrian walkways, which can cause road hazards.
By staying proactive and following these safety tips, you can enjoy a memorable and safe festive season.
Happy Holidays!
