As the festive season approaches, it's time to think about more than just gifts and celebrations. The holiday period is a prime time for burglars, who may see your busy schedule or travel plans as an opportunity to target your home. To ensure a safe and secure holiday season, here are some essential tips to protect your home and belongings during Christmas.
Keep Christmas Gifts Out of View
While it’s tempting to display gifts under the tree early, especially in the lead-up to Christmas Day, this can also attract unwanted attention.
Try positioning your Christmas tree and presents away from windows that face the street. Keeping your gifts out of sight will reduce the chances of opportunistic thieves being tempted by what they see through your windows.
Set Up Christmas Lights Securely
Decorating your home with Christmas lights is always a fun tradition, but safety and security should come first. Be sure to use outdoor-rated electrical sockets for your outdoor lights, and avoid running extension cords through partially open windows or doors. This not only compromises your home’s security but also poses a potential fire hazard.
Properly Dispose of Packaging and Wrapping
Once Christmas Day has passed and gifts have been opened, be cautious about how you dispose of boxes and packaging. Leaving empty packaging from expensive items like electronics outside or in clear view can tip off thieves about what’s inside your home. Store discarded packaging in your garage or shed until collection day to keep your purchases under wraps.
Don’t Broadcast Your Christams and New Year Plans
If you’re planning to spend Christmas away from home, be mindful of what you share online. Posting about your travel plans on social media can let strangers know your house will be empty. Instead, save your holiday snaps and updates for when you return, ensuring that no one is alerted to your absence in real-time.
Make Your Home Appear Occupied
If you’re going to be away for a few days, creating the illusion that your home is still occupied can be a strong deterrent against burglars. Simple tools like light timers can switch lights on and off automatically, giving the impression that someone is inside.
Dusk-to-dawn outdoor lights or even a fake TV that simulates the flickering of a television can also make potential intruders think twice before approaching your property.
Save a Locksmith’s Contact Information
With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy to misplace or forget your keys. To avoid the stress of being locked out in the middle of the festivities, make sure to have the contact details of a trusted, OFQUAL-certified locksmith saved on your phone. Many locksmiths offer 24/7 services, including on holidays, so you won’t have to worry if the worst happens.
By following these straightforward tips, you can focus on enjoying the holiday season, knowing your home is safe and secure. Taking these extra precautions will help ensure a worry-free Christmas, allowing you to fully enjoy the festive spirit.