‘Tis the season to be jolly! Unfortunately, though, ‘tis also the season to be extra vigilant about your home’s security. While most of us look forward to time with family, good food, vacations, and gift exchanges, there are others who get excited for a different reason. With so many gifts being purchased, it’s open season for porch pirates and even valuable new goods that are found inside homes. While you’re celebrating the season this month, be sure to make use of some home security tips so you don’t fall victim to opportunistic thieves. Here’s how you can protect your home.
Secure Your Home Before You Leave
Let’s start with the basics. While it would be great if we could leave our home unoccupied without fearing a break-in, that’s not the case. It’s better to be safe than sorry, so here are some simple steps you can take to protect your home while you’re away:
- Lock All Entry Points: Doors and windows—especially those on the ground floor—are the obvious entry points, but don’t forget about garage doors and basement access points.
- Use Deadbolts: The lock on a doorknob can’t deter a committed intruder. Sometimes all they need to get past it is a credit card or a good kick. Make sure all your doors have a deadbolt, and make use of them when you leave home.
- Find a Good Spot for Your Spare Key: When a burglar is looking for your spare key, doormats and flower pots are probably the first things they’ll look under. Get creative and find a hiding spot that is truly elusive.
Create Illusion of Occupancy
When a criminal thinks someone is home, they’re far less likely to continue their break-in attempts. Simple tricks can create an illusion that the house is occupied. Don’t worry; none of them are as complicated as the schemes of Kevin McCallister in Home Alone:
- Stay Quiet on Social Media: This one is less about making them think someone’s home and more about not letting them know you’re away. If you’re constantly posting on social media about your trip, they’ll know they can break in without fear of you showing up and catching them in the act.
- Set Up Timers for Lights and Electronics: Timers and smart devices give you the ability to program lights, TVs, and more to turn off and on at certain times, mimicking daily activity and convincing burglars to move along.
- Manage Mail and Deliveries: Newspapers and packages piling up on the porch for days on end is a telltale sign that the house is empty. Before you leave for a winter holiday, arrange for any deliveries—including regular mail—to be held until you get back. You can also have a neighbor collect them for you.
Invest in Home Security Measures
The home security tips we’ve covered so far are effective, but perhaps not as effective as a full-on security system. It can be a game changer for your holiday peace of mind, so let’s discuss your options.
- Install a Smart Security System: Want to keep an eye on your home no matter where you are? Smart systems with cameras, alarms, and remote monitoring will allow you to do just that. Many will even alert the proper authorities if anything unsavory is detected.
- Use Motion-Sensor Lights: This is a simple yet effective way to make unwelcome guests panic. Darkness is a thief’s best friend. When they’re lit up like a Christmas tree, they’ll think twice about trying to break in.
- Display Security System Signage: Many (if not all) home security systems installation companies have signs and stickers their customers can display on their property. Sometimes, this is enough to discourage potential burglars, even if you don’t have an actual system installed. We still recommend you get one, though.
These home security tips are vital during the holiday season. With so many packages sitting on front porches all across the country, they’re basically daring ill-intentioned characters to steal them. With effective security measures in place, you won’t have to worry about joining the ranks of porch pirate victims.
Secure Valuables
Protecting your home also means safeguarding what’s inside. Despite the measures you take, there’s always the possibility of a rare breed of intruder targeting your home. They won’t give up easily, so hiding away or otherwise securing your valuables is advised. Jewelry, important documents, and other high-value items should be kept in secure places like:
- Safes
- Fire boxes
- Well-secured rooms
- Clever hiding spots
We know that not all valuables are easily concealable. After all, your 60-inch smart TV probably won’t fit in your safe. If possible, make sure these larger valuables aren’t easily visible from streets or sidewalks.
Stay Safe With These Home Security Tips
The holidays are a time to celebrate, but some people seek to turn the season of giving into the season of taking. Planning and vigilance is crucial to protect your home from them. By utilizing these home security tips—securing your home, concealing your valuables, and not broadcasting your travel plans—you can enjoy this time with peace of mind.
If you truly want to protect your home year round with state-of-the-art equipment and features, reach out to us and we can discuss your security options. We’ve been in the business of home security systems installation for years, and we can find you the security solutions that work best for your home. Have a safe and secure holiday season!
