The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and fun, but unfortunately, it’s also peak time for home invasions. Between increased travel, more packages on doorsteps, and valuable gifts inside, homes can become easy targets for theft this time of year. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the holidays with peace of mind knowing your home and valuables are safe and secure. We are here to help you in protecting your home against theft during the holidays.
Taking the basic steps goes a long way towards preventing burglaries. Many burglaries occur through unlocked doors and windows, so double check all entry points to your home before leaving, even just to run to the store. Consider investing in deadbolts, a sliding door lock, window locks, or smart locks that allow you to monitor your home remotely.
Lighting is another simple yet effective layer of protection. A well-lit exterior discourages burglars who prefer to stay unnoticed, so install motion-sensor lights around doors, garages, and walkways. Smart lighting systems can mimic your daily routines, making it look like someone is home even when you’re out of town. Some home security systems have a feature or add-on that will allow you to remotely control the lights in your home.
If you are traveling during the holidays, be cautious about sharing your plans on social media. Posting vacation photos in real time can unintentionally signal to potential thieves that your home is empty. Instead, wait to share your memories until after you return. Before leaving, make your home look occupied by using light timers, asking a trusted neighbor to collect your mail or packages, and keeping a car in the driveway if possible.
With holiday shopping at its peak, package theft also becomes more common. To keep deliveries safe, request packages be placed out of plain sight, opt for in-store pickup when convenient, or use a secure parcel locker. Doorbell cameras and outdoor home security cameras can also deter potential thieves and help you keep an eye on what’s happening outside your home.
You can and should enjoy the holidays without worrying about the safety of your home. With a little preparation, your season can remain merry, bright, and secure.
