The winter holidays are magical as this is a time of joy, celebration and gratitude for many people. However, this time can also pose some challenges and risks for personal and organizational safety. Here are some tips during Winter Safety Awareness Month to help make sure the season is festive, healthy and safe.

Cybersecurity

Malware attacks (e.g., ransomware, spyware, adware) are generally numerous year-round, but they increase significantly over the holiday season. With staff away from the office, thousands of marketing emails and online shopping opportunities, out-of-office emails that may provide valuable information to criminals, it is not surprising that cyber threat actors consider this time of year as a great “business” opportunity.

• Stay vigilant with “too-good-to-be-true” online offers. Think twice before clicking on a marvelous deal link that is unrealistically good.
• Trust your instincts – if a request from a colleague or a friend seems too strange, it probably is. When in doubt, double-check the information (if possible, directly with the source).
• Do not reuse passwords. If one account is compromised, an attacker will attempt to access other accounts with the same credentials.
• Do not click on tracking number links for unexpected emails. Hover over the link to see where it directs.
• Enable 2-factor authentication on all your accounts for an additional security layer.
• Secure your personal and business devices when you have guests over. Kids (and pets) may cause a lot of trouble without meaning to.

Travel Safety

If you are planning to travel during the holidays, make sure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for winter weather.

• Check your tires, battery, antifreeze, windshield wipers and lights before you hit the road.
• Pack an emergency kit with items such as blankets, flashlights, water, snacks, jumper cables and a first-aid kit.
• Plan your route ahead of time and check the weather and traffic conditions.
• Avoid driving when you are tired, distracted or impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Always wear your seat belt and follow the speed limit and traffic rules.
• If you encounter snow, ice or fog, slow down and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Fire Safety

Holiday decorations can be a fun way to express creativity and get into the holiday spirit. However, some decorations can also be hazardous if not used properly.

• Turn off holiday lights at night or when you leave the house.
• Replace any string of lights with worn or broken cords or loose bulb connections.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches away from flammable materials or consider using flameless candles.
• Water your Christmas tree daily and don’t let it dry out. A dry tree is more flammable.
• Make sure your tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, radiators, candles, heat vents or lights, and not blocking an exit.
• Don’t overload extension cords and outlets. Replace all worn, old or damaged appliance cords, and do not run cords under rugs or furniture.
• If you have children or pets, avoid decorations that are small, sharp, or breakable, or that contain toxic substances, such as mistletoe, holly berries, or artificial snow.

Mental Health

Celebrating the holidays with your family and friends can be a great way to relax and have fun. However, it can also be a period of stress, sadness, and loneliness for others. SAMHSA offers some strategies to help find moments of joy amidst the hustle and bustle this holiday season, including:

1. Pay attention to your feelings
   Remember that it is okay to feel unhappy during the holidays. Recognizing your feelings is the first step to addressing and nurturing them.
2. Develop a plan for when you are feeling stressed, sad or lonely
   This plan may include calling a friend or family member, going for a walk, engaging in an activity that brings joy or watching a favorite movie.
3. Practice self-care
   It is important to schedule time for yourself and activities that recharge your mind and body. This may include reading a good book, working out, spending time in nature and practicing stress management skills, such as deep breathing, meditation and mindfulness.
4. Connect with community
   If you can’t be near loved ones during the holidays, finding a supportive community through clubs, support groups, community centers, local meetups and faith communities can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. Consider scheduling a regular phone call with family and friends as well.
5. Support others
   During this time of year feelings of grief and loss can amplify. Check in on loved ones who may be alone or struggling during the holiday season. Helping a friend or neighbor not only gives joy to others, but it can improve your own happiness and well-being.
6. Know when to seek help
   It is important to seek help when mental health struggles are becoming overwhelming and difficult to handle. For more information and resources, visit SAMHSA.

By following these tips during Winter Safety Awareness Month, you can have a safe and healthy winter holiday season. Happy holidays!

If you have any questions or need additional support in the area of organizational preparedness, emergency management or business continuity, please contact Compliance and Risk Management Services Manager, Alexander Lipovtsev, at alipovtsev@feldesman.com or 202.466.8960.