Shop Local and Shop Safe During Holiday Season

By Cindy Denby

The holiday season is somehow already upon us and it's time to prepare and get our homes ready for this joyous time. What many people may not realize is that Michigan is home to more than 700 Christmas tree growers and 54 poinsettia growers. Local growers are an essential part of our economy, and Michigan Christmas tree growers harvest approximately three million trees each year, and poinsettia growers produce 2.3 million plants each annually. During this wonderful season, you can help support our state as you honor holiday traditions and local growers by purchasing trees and poinsettias grown right here in Michigan.

Shop Safely During Holiday Rush

The holiday shopping season is also well underway as consumers try to get their shopping lists taken care of before the holidays begin. The busy nature of this season can lead to residents becoming distracted and sadly thieves are prepared to take advantage of shoppers when this happens. Help Eliminate Auto Thefts, Michigan's auto-theft prevention tip line, is encouraging residents to take a few extra minutes and protect themselves from auto theft-related crime while holiday shopping. The last thing anyone wants is to come out of the shopping mall and find their car stolen, vandalized or robbed.

H.E.A.T. reminds shoppers to park in well-lit high traffic areas, place valuables and purchases out of sight and move your car if you return to your car during a shopping trip. It's also recommended that shoppers stay vigilant, even in their own driveways, where thieves are getting bolder and approaching shoppers and their vehicles while gifts are being unloaded. Shoppers who are juggling packages, digging for their keys or talking on the phone can become easy targets. Staying alert and watchful will help keep you, your vehicle and your gifts safer this holiday season. For more information and tips, visit H.E.A.T.'s website at www.1800242HEAT.com. 

 If you have any questions or need assistance with any state issues, please contact me toll free at 866-828-4863 or via e-mail at cindydenby@house.mi.gov