The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, for many, travel. Whether you’re spending time with family out of town or simply caught up in the hustle and bustle of holiday activities, it’s easy to let your guard down when it comes to home security. Unfortunately, criminals often take advantage of the season, knowing that homes may be left vacant or security habits may become lax. To help ensure that your home remains safe during this festive time, here are several tips to remember for maximizing your home security during the holidays.
Secure Your Home’s Entry Points for Home Security During the Holidays
Doors and windows are burglars’ primary access points, so it’s crucial to ensure that they are well-secured. Invest in sturdy deadbolt locks for all doors, and make sure your windows have secure latches. You may also consider adding reinforcements like door security bars or window locks. Double-check all locks before you leave home, whether for a quick errand or an extended holiday trip.
Many homeowners now opt for smart locks, which can offer additional security. With a smart lock, you can unlock your doors remotely, and some models even notify you when a door is opened. This can provide peace of mind, especially when traveling during the holidays.
Be Mindful of Your Social Media Presence
It’s tempting to share holiday plans or post pictures while you’re out of town, but doing so can alert potential burglars that your home is empty. If you want to share your holiday adventures online, consider waiting until you’ve returned home.
Additionally, if you’re using smart home devices connected to your security system, be cautious about sharing your location in real time. Criminals can easily monitor social media for information that could lead them to an unguarded home.
Use Timers and Smart Lighting
Keeping your home well-lit is a key deterrent for burglars, as criminals are less likely to target a house that looks occupied. Installing timers or smart lighting can make it appear that someone is home, even when you’re not.
Program indoor lights to turn on and off at random intervals to mimic regular activity. If you have outdoor lighting, make sure it’s bright enough to illuminate entryways and paths. Motion-sensor lights are an excellent option for the exterior of your home, as they will turn on when anyone approaches.
Avoid Making Your Home an Easy Target
Before you leave for the holidays, take steps to make your home less attractive to burglars. Keep valuable items like electronics, jewelry, or gifts out of sight from windows. Consider closing curtains or blinds to limit visibility into your home.
If you’re expecting package deliveries, arrange for a neighbor to collect them or use an alternative delivery service that holds your packages until you return. Unattended packages on the doorstep can signal that no one is home.
It’s also wise to stop regular deliveries, such as newspapers or mail. A pile-up of mail in the mailbox indicates that the homeowners are away. Contact your local post office to temporarily hold your mail while you’re gone.
Don’t Forget About Fire Safety
In the excitement of holiday preparations, it’s easy to forget that home safety goes beyond burglar prevention. With the increased use of candles, lights, and space heaters during the holidays, the risk of house fires also rises.
Ensure your smoke detectors are functioning properly, and replace batteries if needed. If you’re using candles, blow them out before leaving the house or going to bed. Avoid overloading electrical outlets with holiday lights and other decorations, and keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
The holiday season should be a time of joy and relaxation, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook the security of your home. Taking a few proactive steps ensures your home remains safe and secure throughout the holidays. Whether implementing smart home technology, relying on your neighbors, or simply being mindful of your surroundings, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting your home.
FAQs for Home Security During the Holidays
Should I notify my alarm company if I’m traveling for the holidays?
Yes, it’s a good idea to let your alarm company know you’ll be away, especially if you use a monitored system. Many security companies can offer additional monitoring services or set your system to higher sensitivity while you’re gone. They may also note that the home will be unoccupied, which can help them respond more effectively in the event of an alarm.
Are holiday package thefts more common, and how can I prevent them?
Yes, package thefts often spike during the holiday season as more home deliveries are made. To prevent package theft, use package lockers provided by delivery companies or request that packages be delivered to a trusted neighbor. Some companies also offer delivery to secure pick-up locations, like Amazon Lockers or UPS Access Points. If you have a smart doorbell, you can communicate with delivery personnel in real time to arrange secure drop-offs.
What can I do to make my home look occupied when I’m away for an extended period?
In addition to using light timers and smart lighting, you can take additional steps to make your home appear lived-in. Ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway, schedule lawn care or snow removal services, and arrange for regular mail or package collection. If possible, set a radio or television to turn on at various times using a timer, giving the impression of noise and activity inside the home.
Cole’s Inspection Services offers home inspections to customers in Statesville, NC, and the surrounding area. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request our services.