As concerns about criminal activities and theft continue to rise, it's crucial for individuals to take proactive measures, especially during the holiday season. While various efforts have been made to address this growing menace, the holiday months of November, December, and January still see a spike in home burglaries, primarily due to increased shopping activities and the festive spirit.
To safeguard your home against holiday theft, use these 10 tips to stay vigilant and implement effective home defense techniques.
~1. Keep Your Plans Private
~While social media is a valuable tool for staying connected, it's crucial to exercise caution about the information you publicly share. Avoid announcing your holiday plans, especially if you plan to vacation, on social platforms to prevent making your home a target for burglars.
~2. Conceal Your Christmas Tree and Gifts
~As excited as you may be about your festive decorations, consider keeping your Christmas tree and presents hidden from street view. Flaunting your holiday spirit may inadvertently attract thieves. Share your joy with close friends and family instead of broadcasting it to the neighborhood.
~3. Unload Packages Safely
~After holiday shopping, resist the temptation to unload packages in the driveway. If possible, use your garage to prevent burglars from taking advantage of your vulnerable moments. Be cautious of your surroundings, and always lock your car, even if unloading items briefly.
~4. Secure Windows and Doors
~During this season of increased theft, ensure all windows and doors are locked when you're away or at bedtime. A locked home is less appealing to burglars, who often seek easy entry points. Don't make it effortless for them to gain access.
~5. Be Wary of Carolers
~While the holiday spirit may encourage welcoming gestures, avoid inviting carolers into your home. Unwanted guests could use this opportunity to gather information about your property, making you a potential target for theft.
~6. Mind Your Power Cords
~With festive decorations in full swing, be cautious about running cords and cables through cracked windows or doors. This innocent act might inadvertently create entry points for burglars. Prioritize safety over aesthetics to prevent unwarranted access to your home.
~7. Create the Illusion of Presence
~Make your home appear occupied even when you're away. Park a car in your driveway, use timers for lights (making sure to mix up timings), and halt mail and newspaper deliveries. These measures, along with a radio or alarm system, create the illusion of an active household.
~8. Avoid Hiding Spare Keys
~Hiding spare keys, especially during the holidays, poses unnecessary risks. Instead, invest in a keypad lock and share the combination with trusted individuals. Change the code periodically and inform others to maintain security.
~9. Eliminate Hiding Spots
~Burglars thrive in concealed spaces, so maintain a well-trimmed yard visible from the street. Eliminate potential hiding spots like overgrown bushes and trees in front of doors and windows to discourage thieves from targeting your home.
~10. Retrieve Deliveries Promptly
~With the increase in online shopping, ensure timely retrieval of delivered packages. Opt for side or back door drop-offs, or have a neighbor collect items for you, to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Additional Tips to Keep your Valuables Safe during the Holidays
By taking some extra steps, you can create a robust defense against potential threats to your valuables and property. Enact these 5 steps to ensure that your festive celebrations remain joyous and worry-free, allowing you to focus on creating lasting memories with friends and family.
~1. Gift Storage: Protecting Precious Presents
~While the joy of gift-giving is an integral part of the holiday season, it's crucial to consider the safety of your presents. Avoid storing gifts in your car trunk, instead, bring your valuable gifts inside your home promptly.
~2. Extended Vacation Measures: Securing Your Home Away
~If your holiday plans involve an extended vacation, taking proactive measures becomes even more critical. Prior to your departure, inform trustworthy neighbors about your absence and seek their assistance in keeping an eye on your property. Additionally, coordinate with maintenance personnel or service providers to ensure routine checks and upkeep. Confirm that all security measures, including alarms and surveillance systems, are not only in place but also fully functional. This collaborative effort will contribute to a safer and more secure home environment during your extended absence.
~3. Consider a Security System: Elevating Home Defense
~As technology advances, so do the tools available for safeguarding your home. Considering the installation of a comprehensive security system is a proactive and effective measure to deter trespassers and bolster your overall home defense strategy during the holiday season. Modern security systems often include features such as motion sensors, door/window alarms, and 24/7 monitoring. This added layer of protection not only acts as a deterrent but also provides peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without compromising on security.
~4. Valuables Inventory: Document and Protect
~Take inventory of your valuable possessions before the holiday season kicks in. Document important details, such as serial numbers, descriptions, and take photographs of high-value items. This documentation can be invaluable in the event of theft or loss, aiding law enforcement and insurance claims. Consider storing this information in a secure, off-site location or utilizing digital platforms for easy accessibility. Update your insurance regularly.
~5. Community Watch: Collaborative Security
~Establish or join a neighborhood watch group to foster a sense of community security. Share information about any suspicious activities or potential security concerns during the holiday season. Enhancing vigilance provides an additional layer of protection for everyone in the community.
