The Key to a Happy Thanksgiving…

Thanksgiving is a time to spend with family, give thanks, and of course, eat lots of turkey. But with all the travel and celebration done around the holidays, it’s important to keep your family’s safety in mind. So whether you’re traveling across the country or hosting family at your home, here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and happy turkey day!


In some communities, there are many activities that occur Thanksgiving morning. Maybe your town hosts a parade, or annual 5k race, or perhaps your friends and family get together for a little touch football in the park. Whatever your traditions may be, always be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to who is around you and keep your eyes out for potentially dangerous situations, especially if you have children with you. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the holiday events, so be sure to pay attention.

Traveling

Traveling can be stressful in itself, especially around the busiest travel season of the year. When at the airport, keep a close eye on your luggage as well as others you’re traveling with. If you’re traveling by car, make sure there’s plenty of gas in the tank, a physical map in the glove box, extra phone and GPS chargers, and an emergency kit in case your car breaks down.

While preparing travel arrangements, it’s easy to neglect proper home safety while away. First things first, make sure all doors and windows are locked. Leave a light on and a car in the driveway to make it appear someone is home. Packages left on your step is an indicator that homeowners are out of town and potential targets for theft. Consider asking a trusted neighbor or friend to check on your home while out of town to collect your mail and packages.

Want to know if you’re a safe holiday traveler? Take this quiz to find out!

Black Friday Shopping

Ah, Black Friday. The shopping chaos that initiates for many during the late hours after feasting on a large Thanksgiving meal and carries into the early hours of Friday morning can be very exciting and well, chaotic. When at a crowded store, other shoppers may get competitive when looking for the best bargain. Avoid altercations and potentially threatening situations, even if it means forfeiting that amazing sale. On the other hand if you’re like me, Black Friday shopping online is a great alternative! Get great savings while lounging on your couch and keep the fuss of crowds and parking behind Just be sure to minimize your risk for identity theft when making online purchases.

Hosting

If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, you may have a large number of people over to your house. Some of your guests may even include friends of family members or others you don’t know entirely well. It’s important to put up objects you normally leave out or are of great value. This also goes for items like knives, firearms, etc. Store your things carefully and remember where you have placed them (i.e. you moved the glass vase to the top of the bookshelf). You may want to invest in a safe to ensure your possessions are safe and secure.

Remember these tips and get ready for a safe and fun holiday! These tips were brought to you by NRA’s Refuse To Be A Victim program. For more information on the program or to find a seminar near you, please visit rtbav.nra.org.