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Sleigh It Safe, Long Beach!
By Staff Writer
Published on Mon, Dec 22, 2025
The holidays are here, and Long Beach is ready to celebrate—but before you deck the halls and jingle all the way, the City is reminding residents to put safety at the top of their wish lists. A few smart choices can help keep the season merry, bright and injury-free.
Don’t Get Tangled in Tinsel Trouble
Holiday decor brings the sparkle, but it can also bring risk. Keep Christmas trees at least three feet away from heat sources and water live trees daily so they don’t turn into kindling. Check light strings for damage, don’t overload outlets and always turn lights off before bed or heading out. Candles? Keep them far from decorations—or better yet, go flameless. Your tree should glow, not go.
Cook Up Cheer—Not a Fire
Unattended cooking is the Grinch of holiday safety. Stay in the kitchen while using the stovetop, keep kids and pets away from hot food and skip deep-frying turkeys. Set timers, test smoke alarms and make sure guests know how to exit safely—just in case.
Host with the Most Safety
Well-lit walkways, clutter-free spaces and a cozy escape spot for overwhelmed pets can help keep gatherings joyful instead of chaotic. Bonus points for keeping poisonous plants and breakable ornaments out of reach.
Drive Like Santa’s Watching
The Long Beach Police Department will be out in full force this season, cracking down on impaired and distracted driving. DUI-related crashes claim lives every year—so plan ahead, designate a sober driver or use a rideshare. Phones down, eyes up and sleigh bells optional.
Shop Deals, Not Drama
Park in well-lit areas, keep packages out of sight, lock your car and carry bags close. At home, bring packages inside quickly or have deliveries sent to a neighbor if you’re away. Porch pirates don’t deserve presents.
Fireworks? Not on the Nice List
All personal fireworks—including sparklers—are illegal in Long Beach. Same goes for “celebratory” gunfire, which is extremely dangerous and very illegal. If you see something sketchy, say something.
When in Doubt, Reach Out
Emergencies: dial 911. Non-emergencies: 562-435-6711.
With a little common sense and a lot of holiday spirit, Long Beach can keep the season bright, safe and full of cheer. After all, the best gift is making it home safely.
