Staying Safe While Out and About This Holiday Season

The holiday season brings excitement, connection, and plenty of reasons to get out and about, but it also brings crowded stores, busy parking lots, and fast-moving environments that can make staying aware a little more challenging. Whether you’re shopping, meeting friends, traveling, or simply running errands, a few simple habits can help you move through the season with more confidence and less stress.

Start by giving your attention back to the world around you. Keeping your phone tucked away, even for just a few minutes at a time, allows you to stay alert to people, movement, and changes in your surroundings. When parking, choose well-lit areas whenever possible and do a quick scan before getting out of your car. It takes only a few seconds, but it helps you spot anything that doesn’t feel right.

As you navigate crowded spaces, keep your bag zipped and close to your body, especially during those busy shopping days when it’s easy for distractions to take over. And remember: your intuition is one of your strongest tools. If something feels off, such as a person, a situation, or even a location, give yourself permission to step away, redirect, or ask for help. Your instincts are there for a reason.

At the end of the day, staying safe this holiday season isn’t about being fearful, it’s about staying present. A little awareness goes a long way, and adopting these small habits can help you enjoy everything the season has to offer while feeling grounded, prepared, and aware.