By Edward Debrah
The season to be jolly is just a week away and as usual, thousands of Ghanaians use the Christmas break to travel far and wide to meet friends and family, spread love and joy at social gatherings amidst celebrations.
Even though, the Christmas period is mostly fun packed, previous statistics from the National Road Safety Authority suggests the Christmas period is a time where most road transport accidents do occur. Several cases of theft increases including stealing of mobile phones at social events, breaking into people’s property, especially when most Christians are in church for the 31st December watch night services etc.
In this article, I highlight the potential high-risk areas and propose some solutions that could be applied to mitigate against any untoward incidents/accidents during the Yuletide Season.
- Road Safety
Persons who intend traveling for the Christmas Festivities should consider complying with the below;
- Keeping to speed limits and avoid over speeding.
- Ensuring vehicles are thoroughly inspected and certified to be in good condition before use.
- Be attentive on the road by prioritising pedestrians, especially in crowded areas like markets.
- Using seatbelts and avoid distractions like phone use while driving.
- Do not take unprescribed drugs nor alcohol before driving.
- Ensuring drivers are well rested before embarking on long journeys.
- Always plan ahead and use reputable public transport service companies where needed.
- Fire Safety
Most people do increase the quantity of cooking Christmas meals, mainly to organise Christmas feasts as a tradition and this activity, although, generous, could present several fire hazards. It is important to;
- Keep flammable materials (gas including methane, propane; liquids including fuel and solids including dry wood, papers, certain types of plastics etc) away and at safe distances.
- Avoid faulty and overloading electrical sockets and in some cases with broken and exposed electric cables.
- Ensure candles and Christmas lights are used safely.
- Ensure young children are trained to stay away from open flames and kitchen appliances.
- Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide monitors are installed in homes.
- Ensure portable fire extinguishers and fire blankets are readily available and inhabitants know how to use those items to fight minor fires.
- Ensure the fire service emergency number 193 is known and on speed dial.
- Protect your home and valuables
There is no better time to invest in closed circuit television (CCTV), electric fencing to protect property as many Ghanaians tend to travel during Christmas which leaves their property at the mercy of thieves. It is important to;
- Lock all doors and windows securely before leaving home.
- Avoid displaying large amounts of money and valuables in public. This practice attract unnecessary attention.
- Do not share sensitive information in public and on social media including physical address, travel plans, number of cars at homes, personal effects etc. The less you show, the less attention it draws.
- Consider entrusting homes to trusted neighbours or if possible, invest in some closed-circuit television, security fencing and improve outdoor lighting.
- Procure property insurance policies for your prized assets.
- Health Precautions
Health is wealth. With the abundance of food and drinks during the holiday season, it is important for people to stay healthy by:
- Avoiding consuming food from unhygienic vendors.
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated especially under the scorching sun and the humid weather.
- Consume alcohol in moderation if you aren’t able to stay away from alcohol.
- Ensure an adequately stuffed first aid kit is readily available.
- Remember to avoid alcohol should you decide to drive.
- COVID-19 and General Hygiene
It appears Covid-19 has subsided but there has been cases of infections confirmed by tests that has, in recent times, been reported and the rate of spreading is quite worrying. It is important to consider:
- Washing hands frequently or use sanitizer.
- Avoiding overcrowded spaces when possible.
- Wearing mask if you feel unwell or have flu symptoms.
- Staying home if you feel unwell and showing symptoms.
- Remember that the virus does not move, people on the other hand move, so once movement stops, spread also stops.
No doubt several beautiful memories may be created during the festivities, it is however, very important to prioritise safety first and foremost.
The points shared may not be exhaustive, but it provides some idea as to what could be done to keep people Safe and Healthy during the Yuletide Season.
Stay alert, plan ahead and cherish the special moments the Christmas period presents to you and your loved ones.
Edward is a UK based HSEQ Executive, has over 12 years of HSEQ experience across Oil and Gas, Energy, Construction, University Lecturer and Waste Management.
Email:[email protected]
Twitter:@theeddiedebs
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