It feels like Christmas has snuck up on us even faster than usual this year! The team are looking forward to a break, after a whirlwind end to the year, working both in Aotearoa and the Pacific. While we’re all eager to embrace the festive season and summer holidays, it’s important to remember that this time of year can bring its own stresses and challenges. Whether you’re heading to the beach, having a classic Kiwi BBQ, or enjoying time with the aiga, taking care of yourself and your loved ones should always come first. Speaking of safety, we’ve put together some helpful hints to keep you and your whānau protected during the holiday season.
At Home:
- Let your trusted neighbours know you’re away. Maybe ask them to park their car in your driveway occasionally to make it look lived in.
- Make your ranch sliders burglar-proof by laying a wooden dowel or sturdy piece of timber in the sliding track. Cut it to fit snugly in the track when the door is closed. A simple solution for only a few dollars.
- Set your lights on timers or leave a few on to make it look like someone’s home. Leave your TV on a timer too – the sound and flickering light make it more convincing someone’s home. (If you’re not techy, ask the kids how to do it!)
- Put your mail on hold, and don’t broadcast your holiday on social media until you’re back.
Beach Safety:
- Always swim between the flags at patrolled beaches. The surf lifesavers know their stuff!
- Keep an eye on the kids at all times around water – put the phone away and stay within arm’s reach of young ones.
- Check the weather forecast and conditions before heading out. If in doubt, don’t go out!
- Learn to spot rips (look for calm patches between waves, discoloured or sandy water). Check out Surf Life Saving NZ’s website for detailed guidance on identifying and surviving rips here: SURFLIFESAVING RIPS
- Slip, slop, slap and wrap – use plenty of sunscreen, wear a hat and sunnies.
- Never swim alone, and don’t mix alcohol with swimming.
And finally, OPSEC has done a lot of training with animal handlers this year. So as a tribute to our furry friends, we urge you to think about keeping your pets safe as well. On a 21°C day, your car can heat up to over 45°C in just 10 minutes. If you’re popping to the supermarket or dairy, leave them at home in the shade with plenty of fresh water.
Take care of yourselves these holidays and we look forward to seeing you in 2025!
Jack Milford QSM,
Managing Director
OPSEC Solutions Ltd |
