The holidays are a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends and in order to keep that tradition going it is important to stay safe and healthy.

According to the Centers for Disease Control Prevention’s website, www.cdc.gov, there are several things you can do to stay healthy this holiday season:

Wash your hands often, stay warm, travel safely, be smoke-free, regular check-ups/vaccinations, watch the kids, prevent injuries, handle and prepare food safely, eat healthy and be active.

Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Deputy, Anthony Bejaran, also offered these tips for a safe and happy holiday season while accomplishing your holiday shopping:

Avoid driving alone or at night.

Keep all car doors locked and windows closed while in or out of your car. Set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.

If you must shop at night, park in a well-lighted area.

Avoid parking next to vans, trucks with camper shells, or cars with tinted windows.

Park as close as you can to your destination and take notice of where you parked.

Never leave your car unoccupied with the motor running or with children inside.

Do not leave packages or valuables on the seat of your car. If you must leave something in the car, lock it in the trunk or put it out of sight.

Be sure to locate your keys prior to going to your car.

Keep a secure hold on your purse, handbag, and parcels. Do not put them down or on top of the car in order to open the door.

When approaching or leaving your vehicle, be aware of your surroundings.

Do not approach your car alone if there are suspicious people in the area.

Ask mall or store security for an escort before leaving your shopping location.

“Shoppers should feel safe shopping in Riverbank as we have increased our patrols of Riverbank’s shopping centers during the holiday season and multiple Riverbank businesses also have their own loss prevention/security staff that keeps a watchful eye on activity as well,” said Riverbank Police Services Chief Erin Kiely. “Riverbank Police Services works closely with store security on a routine basis and has a sound working relationship with them which results in issues getting resolved efficiently.”

Kiely also added that there will be a large number of people out shopping which automatically creates many potential witnesses that can identify and report crime.

“I would like to encourage all shoppers in Riverbank to call Stanislaus Regional 911 in order to report any behavior that is criminal or suspicious in nature,” stated Kiely. “By working together we can help increase everyone’s chance of having a safe and happy holiday season.”