The holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and festive celebrations. However, it is also a prime time for burglars to take advantage of empty homes and distracted homeowners. With so much focus on shopping, travel, and social activities, it’s easy to overlook home security. Here’s a home security guide for the holidays to keeping your home secure while you’re away or busy with festivities.
1. Secure All Entry Points while away for the holidays
One of the first steps in protecting your home during the holidays is to secure all ways into your home. This includes doors, windows, and other access points leading into your home. Make sure that all doors are equipped with deadbolt locks and that windows have sturdy latches. If your windows are older, consider adding window security film or additional locks to make them more difficult to break into.
Tip: Don’t forget about sliding doors. Reinforce them with a metal bar or dowel rod in the track to prevent them from being forced open.
2. Install a Home Security System
A home security system is one of the best investments you can make for peace of mind during the holiday season. Modern security systems offer features like motion detectors, smart cameras, glass break sensors, and 24/7 monitoring services that will alert you and the authorities if any suspicious activity is detected.
If you already have a system installed, make sure it’s fully operational before you leave home for holiday travels. Check that all cameras, alarms, and sensors are functioning properly, and consider upgrading to a smart system that allows you to monitor your home remotely from your smartphone.
Tip: Many home insurance providers offer discounts for homeowners who have security systems installed, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
3. Use Smart Lighting for Indoor and Outdoor Home Security
Smart lighting is a simple yet effective way to deter potential burglars. Thieves often target homes that appear empty, so using automated lights can give the illusion that someone is home even when you’re not. Smart light bulbs can be programmed to turn on and off at random intervals, mimicking your usual routine.
Tip: Consider setting lights to turn on at dusk and off at a reasonable bedtime or using motion-sensor lights for the exterior of your home. These lights will startle any intruder approaching your property and signal to them that your home is protected.
4. Secure Valuables and Important Documents
If you have expensive items or sensitive documents, make sure they’re safely secured before heading out for the holidays. Invest in a high-quality safe to store jewelry, electronics, cash, and important papers like passports, social security cards, and banking information. This will not only protect these items from theft but also from damage in the event of a fire or natural disaster.
Tip: Avoid storing your valuables in obvious places like the master bedroom, where thieves are most likely to search first. Choose a more discreet location, such as a basement or utility room, to keep these items secure.
5. Don’t Advertise Your Absence on Social Media
In the age of social media, it’s tempting to share your holiday plans and travel photos online. However, posting about your vacation while you’re away is like putting a “vacant” sign on your home. Potential burglars could see your posts and take advantage of the fact that you’re not around.
Tip: Keep your holiday adventures offline until you return home or use private messaging to communicate with those who need to know you’re away.
6. Ask a Neighbor or Friend for Help
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your home is to enlist the help of a trusted neighbor or friend. Ask them to keep an eye on your property, collect your mail, and even park their car in your driveway occasionally. An occupied-looking home is a much less appealing target for burglars.
Tip: If you’re going to be away for an extended period, you might consider hiring a house-sitter or using a professional service that provides regular home checks.
7. Keep Your Yard Maintained
A well-maintained yard is another deterrent for potential thieves. Overgrown lawns or piled-up leaves can signal to burglars that no one is home. Before you leave, make sure your lawn is mowed, bushes are trimmed, and any outdoor items like ladders or tools are securely stored away. These items could be used by burglars to gain access to your home.
Tip: If you’ll be gone for more than a week, arrange for a landscaping service to take care of your yard while you’re away.
8. Reinforce Garage Security
Garages are a common point of entry for burglars, so it’s crucial to secure this area as well. If your garage is connected to your home, make sure the door leading into your house is as secure as your front door. Keep the garage door closed at all times and consider installing a smart garage door opener that alerts you when it’s opened or left open.
Tip: Never leave the garage door opener inside your car if it’s parked outside. Thieves can easily break into your car and use the opener to gain access to your home.
9. Invest in a Video Doorbell
Video doorbells are a great addition to any home security setup. These devices allow you to see and speak to anyone who comes to your door, even when you’re not home. Most video doorbells have motion detection and can send alerts directly to your phone when someone approaches your doorstep.
This is especially useful during the holidays when package deliveries are common. You can keep an eye on your packages and deter “porch pirates” from stealing your gifts.
10. Don’t Forget About Fire Safety
Lastly, while focusing on protecting your home from burglars, don’t forget about fire safety. The holidays often involve candles, decorative lights, and cooking, all of which can be fire hazards. Ensure that your smoke detectors are working and have a fire extinguisher easily accessible in case of emergencies.
By taking these precautions, you can greatly reduce the risk of burglary and ensure your home remains safe throughout the holiday season. A little preparation goes a long way in giving you peace of mind to fully enjoy this special time of year with your loved ones.
If you are looking for assistance with locating areas for security, choosing home surveillance devices, or have additional questions, call us at (888) 265-1057. Smart Home Solutions by Airtron is here to provide help in protecting your home and comfort!