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The holidays always brighten up the City of Paramount with festive decorations, annual events, and the excitement of celebration. With so many events and the anticipation of the festivities, it is easy to get swept up in the season, yet this time of year also brings an increase in safety challenges. As residents start to decorate their homes, plan celebrations, and check items off their shopping lists, it is important to stay mindful of safety. The City encourages the community to embrace proactive, simple strategies that protect not only your family and neighbors, but also the spirit of the holidays.
Decorating is a time-honored holiday tradition, but remember to do so with care. Inspect lightbulbs and extension cords for damage, avoid overloading outlets, and move flammable materials away from heaters and open flames. The winter brings seasonably cooler temperatures, so if using a space heater, keep it at least three feet away from anything that can burn and turn it off whenever you leave the room. The kitchen is also a key spot for holiday festivities. While preparing the family’s favorite meals and treats, never leave food on the stove unattended, keep a fire extinguisher close by in case of emergencies, and turn off appliances not in use.
The holiday season is not complete without a little shopping! Whether in-person or online, staying alert can help prevent theft and keep shopping stress-free. Remember to keep personal items close, park in well-lit areas, and store purchases and valuable items out of sight (both in the home and car). For online shoppers, use secure websites, track packages, and consider using the City’s Safe Internet Purchase Exchange Zone for worry-free transactions at the Paramount Sheriff’s Station (15001 Paramount Blvd.). This well-lit, camera-monitored parking spot offers a secure location for meeting buyers or sellers, open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on holidays.
Holiday gatherings and vacation plans mean more time away from home. Before heading out, lock all doors and windows, set timers for interior lights, and use the City’s Request a Patrol Check service to give you peace of mind to fully enjoy your trip. To schedule this service, contact the Public Safety Department at (562) 220-2002 at least two weeks before your departure.
The City is also hosting several holiday activities throughout December for those eager to celebrate:
- Annual Tree Lighting on Wednesday, December 3, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the corner of Paramount Boulevard and Jackson Street.
- Santa Train running from December 8 to 11, starting at 3 p.m. The train stops in different neighborhoods each day, so be sure to visit the City’s event calendar to check the full schedule.
- Photos with Santa on Saturday, December 13, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Paramount Park Community Center (14400 Paramount Blvd). Appointments are required.
- Santa’s Snowfest and Shopping Under the Lights on Saturday, December 13, from 5 to 8 p.m. in Downtown Paramount (Paramount Boulevard and Jackson Street).
A joyful and memorable holiday season starts with a safe community. On behalf of the City, we wish you a merry and safe holiday. For more holiday safety tips, follow the Public Safety Department on social media.
