1. Happy Holidays

Whatever religious or secular practices you observe in December, it’s undoubtedly a busy month for you and your family. Check out USA.gov’s Happy Holidays page for some quick resources on food, travel, safety, and more.

If shopping is part of your holiday experience, you might find some unexpected treasures from government stores, including collectible coins, ornaments, flags flown over the U.S. Capitol, and other unique gifts.

Happy holidays!

Celebre las fiestas

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2. Volunteers Always Needed

If you’ve been wanting to get more involved in your community, consider volunteering. There’s never a shortage of organizations looking for your help! Visit USA.gov’s Public Service and Volunteerism page and the White House’s Serve.gov to find a wide variety of volunteer opportunities.

Oportunidades de voluntariado

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3. FREE Annual Credit Reports

Did you know that you’re entitled to a free annual credit report with each of the three national consumer reporting companies? By checking your credit report regularly, you can ensure that no loans, credit cards, or other financial obligations have been fraudulently initiated in your name.

Tip: Instead of requesting your free annual credit report from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion all at the same time, request them at different times of the year. That way, you’ll be able to check your credit three times throughout the year at no cost.

Informes de crédito anuales gratuitos

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4. Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month

Every day is a deadly day on U.S. roads. Approximately 36 people are killed and 700 are injured in the U.S. each day as a result of alcohol-impaired drivers.

National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month reminds drivers and passengers that responsible decisions can prevent tragedies. If you or your driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, find an alternate way home—get a cab, take public transit, or call a sober friend or family member to pick you up.

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5. Hand-Washing Awareness Week – December 6-12

Hand-washing Awareness Week highlights the connection between hand-washing and good heath. Hand-washing is the best way to avoid catching a cold, flu, or other infection.

If soap and clean water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub; but if you can wash your hands, follow these simple steps:

• Wet your hands with clean running water (use warm water if available) and apply soap.
• Rub hands together to make a lather and scrub all surfaces for at least 20 seconds (about the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” two times).
• Rinse hands well under running water.
• Dry your hands using a paper towel or air dryer. If possible, use your paper towel to turn off the faucet.

La higiene de las manos