If you are hosting a holiday party, consider taking these precautions.
* Make sure your walkways and steps are clear and well-lit. Shovel the snow, melt the ice and check for any tripping hazards.
* Put your personal information in a secure place, including bills and documents with sensitive information, bank statements and credit card statements. Keep purses and wallets out of sight.
* Put away your calendar with vacations and appointments listed on it.
* Remove small valuables that could be broken or stolen. Lock doors to rooms you don't want people to go into.
* Be responsible about serving alcohol. The Insurance Information Institute (iii.org) reports that more than 30 states allow hosts to be found liable if an inebriated guest causes an accident.
* Plan all-inclusive entertainment so guests have something to do besides eating and drinking.
* Serve high-protein foods and snacks. Serve coffee instead of liquor for an hour before guests are scheduled to leave.
