Staying Safe This Holiday Season: Essential Tips for Home Security

The holiday season is a time filled with joy, gatherings, and gift-giving. However, it’s also a peak period for burglaries. Did you know that December experiences a higher number of thefts than any other month? Between festive decorations, frequent travel, and the influx of package deliveries, homes become prime targets for thieves.

To help you enjoy a worry-free holiday, here are five effective strategies to enhance your home security.

1. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

Burglars typically avoid homes that appear to be occupied. They prefer to steal without confrontation, aiming for quick and silent entries. Here’s how to make your home look lived-in:

• Use Timers: Set timers for indoor lights and TVs to turn on at different times, giving the impression that someone is home.
• Leave a Vehicle Outside: If possible, park one car in the driveway rather than in the garage.
• Secure Deliveries: Ask a neighbor to collect your mail regularly to prevent an overflowing mailbox that signals your absence.

Lock Up Before You Leave

Always ensure that all doors and windows are locked. This simple step can deter potential break-ins, as burglars typically avoid noisy entries. Additionally, consider installing motion-sensor lights around your home to thwart unwanted visitors lurking in the shadows.

2. Be Discreet with Packaging

While unwrapping gifts is one of the joys of the season, it can also lead to indicating the valuables inside your home. To prevent attracting thieves:

• Break Down Boxes: Rather than placing large empty boxes for electronics at the curb, break them down and conceal them in trash bags.
• Keep Trash Until Collection Day: If possible, hold off on putting the boxes out until trash day to minimize visibility.

3. Invest in a Doorbell Camera

A doorbell camera serves a dual purpose: it deters burglars and alerts you to package deliveries. Many models come equipped with features such as:

• Motion Sensors: To detect movement and provide alerts.
• Recording Capabilities: Enabling you to capture footage of suspicious individuals.
• Real-Time Notifications: Allowing you to promptly retrieve deliveries, thus minimizing opportunities for theft.

For an overview of the best doorbell cameras, check out this comprehensive guide.

4. Keep Travel Plans Private

Sharing your travel plans on social media can lead to unwanted attention from potential criminals. Here are tips to ensure your home remains safe while you’re away:

• Avoid Public Announcements: Don’t share specific travel dates on social media platforms.
• Request Local Help: Have a trusted neighbor watch your property and collect your mail. This vigilance helps discourage unwanted visitors.

5. Secure Your Decorations

While holiday decorations enhance the festivities, they can inadvertently compromise your security. To ensure safety while celebrating:

• Avoid Where You Place Cords: Running extension cords through windows or doors can signal to burglars that your home is vulnerable.
• Maintain Clear Sightlines: Large decorations can obscure visibility. Ensure that front doors and windows remain visible to monitoring devices.
• Keep Decorations Modest: Extravagant displays may indicate high-value items, attracting thieves.

Enjoy a Safe and Secure Holiday Season

With a mix of vigilance and strategic planning, you can significantly enhance your home security this holiday season. These simple yet effective tips ensure that you enjoy the festivities without the worry of theft. Keep your joys intact and spread good cheer with peace of mind.

For more insights on maintaining home safety, explore additional resources at NerdWallet or State Farm.

Wishing everyone a joyful and secure holiday season!