The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and family gatherings, but it’s also a time when homes are more vulnerable to theft. With people traveling, hosting parties, and having packages delivered, homes become easy targets for burglars. While the holidays should be spent relaxing and enjoying time with loved ones, it’s important to take steps to secure your home. Here are our best tips for home security during the holidays.
Keep Your Travel Plans Private for Home Security During the Holidays
If you’re traveling for the holidays, it may be tempting to share your excitement with friends and followers on social media, but broadcasting your absence can invite trouble. Thieves often scour social media to find out when homeowners are away, making it easier for them to plan a break-in. Wait until you return to post vacation photos or announce your travel plans.
In addition, make your neighbors or a trusted friend or family member aware of your travel schedule. They can help keep an eye on your property and alert you or the authorities if they notice anything unusual.
Invest in a Home Security System
A home security system is one of the most effective deterrents against burglaries. Modern systems are highly advanced and provide real-time alerts to your phone or security service if suspicious activity occurs. Many systems now come with cameras, doorbell alerts, motion sensors, and smart locks that allow you to monitor your home remotely.
During the holidays, when packages are frequently delivered, a doorbell camera can also help you monitor your porch for deliveries and make sure that packages aren’t stolen. If you haven’t already installed a security system, consider doing so before the holiday season. The peace of mind it brings is invaluable.
Use Smart Lighting to Create the Illusion of Being Home
One of the simplest ways to deter burglars is to make it appear as though someone is home, even when you’re away. Smart lighting systems allow you to control the lights in your house remotely or set timers for lights to turn on and off at specific times. This creates the illusion of activity inside your home.
For an extra layer of security, combine smart lighting with motion-activated exterior lights. These lights turn on when someone approaches your home, which can scare off potential burglars.
Secure All Entry Points For Home Security During the Holidays
Burglars often look for the easiest entry points, such as unlocked doors and windows. Before heading out for the holidays, confirm that all doors and windows are securely locked. Don’t forget about secondary entry points, like sliding doors, basement windows, and garage doors. Sliding doors, in particular, are vulnerable, so reinforce them with security bars or dowels in the tracks.
If your doors are older or have weak locks, now might be the time to upgrade to reinforced doors and deadbolt locks. Install smart locks that allow you to lock or unlock doors remotely, giving you an extra level of control over your home’s security.
Be Mindful of Deliveries
The holidays are synonymous with online shopping and package deliveries. Unfortunately, unattended packages on your porch can attract thieves. To prevent package theft, use delivery services that allow you to specify delivery windows when you’re home, or use Amazon Lockers or similar alternatives where your packages can be securely stored until you’re able to pick them up.
Another option is to install a smart lockbox on your porch. These lockboxes can be opened with a code or app, allowing delivery personnel to securely place packages inside, protecting them from porch pirates.
Maintain Your Home’s Exterior
An unkempt exterior signals to burglars that no one is home. If you’re traveling for an extended period during the holidays, arrange for a neighbor or a service to maintain your yard. This includes mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or collecting mail and newspapers. A pile of newspapers or a full mailbox is a clear sign that the home is unoccupied, which makes it a more likely target for burglars.
Form a Neighborhood Watch
There’s strength in numbers when it comes to home security. Get to know your neighbors and form a neighborhood watch group, especially if many people in your area travel during the holidays. Neighbors can look out for each other’s homes, report suspicious activity, and help create a safer community.
If your neighborhood already has a watch group, make sure you’re familiar with its members and communication channels. Many neighborhood watch groups use apps or social media platforms to share information about crime trends and suspicious activity in the area.
By taking proactive steps to secure your home during the holiday season, you’ll enjoy your time with family and friends without worrying about break-ins or theft. Whether you’re staying home, traveling, or hosting gatherings, these security tips will help protect your home and give you the peace of mind you deserve during the holidays. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring that your holiday season is filled with joy and not stress.
FAQs
Should I alert my home security company when I’m going on vacation?
Yes, it’s a good idea to inform your home security company if you’ll be away for an extended period. Many companies offer vacation monitoring services, where they pay extra attention to alerts from your system during that time. Some companies may even offer to dispatch security personnel to check on your home if needed.
How can I prevent package theft if I’m home but unable to monitor deliveries?
If you’re home but unable to monitor package deliveries in real time, consider using a smart doorbell with video and alerts. You can instruct delivery drivers via the doorbell camera to leave packages in a safer, hidden location. Some delivery services also offer secure delivery options, allowing packages to be placed in designated areas or lockboxes.
What can I do to secure my windows against break-ins?
Start by making sure all windows are securely locked before leaving your home. Add additional security with window bars or sensors that trigger your security system if the window is tampered with. Install reinforced glass or window film that makes it more difficult for intruders to break through the windowpane.
Assure Inspections Inc. provides inspection services to homebuyers and sellers in the Chicago area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.