The holidays are a time to reunite with friends and family, open gifts, eat delicious food, and celebrate the New Year. This time of year also gives thieves a reason to celebrate. Millions of homes are left unattended while families travel for the holidays, and burglars see these empty homes as opportunities. Burglaries in the United States peak during December — right in line with the holiday season. Take a look at these tips about home security for the holidays to protect your valuables during your travels.
Systems for Holiday Home Security
A whole-home security system is one of the best ways to meet your holiday security needs. As a deterrent, place decals and signs by windows and entrances that show your home is protected. If any burglars do try to force their way in, an alarm will sound and police will automatically be called to the scene.
Notify Someone You Trust
If you live near a friend or family member, let them know when you’ll be out of town. They can collect your mail and keep an eye on your house to make sure that nothing seems amiss. While they won’t be able to watch your home all day, every day, it doesn’t hurt to have an extra pair of eyes on your property.
Secure Doors and Windows for Home Security for the Holidays
Unlocked doors and windows make it easy to get in and out of the home and, as opposed to a broken window or busted door, no one will be able to tell. Upgrade to heavier locks and a stronger door. Windows can be reinforced with shatter-resistant film to make breaking them more difficult. To improve security, draw your curtains so that it’s harder for burglars to look inside for valuables.
Keep It off the Web
It may be tempting to post photos of your holiday trip on social media, but you’re letting criminals know that you’re away. You’ll be back home in a few days, so share your holiday photos when you return.
Store Your Valuables
Hopefully, nobody will be breaking into your house, but if they do, you don’t want them to walk off with your favorite possessions. When you leave town, put your most valued objects in a safe or entrust them to a friend. A break-in is bad enough without losing that timeless family heirloom or your grandmother’s ring.
Home Security for the Holidays Includes Lighting
If your property is completely dark, folks are more likely to assume that you’re not there. Floodlights and motion-activated lights can ward off potential thieves since they’re more likely to be detected when they can be seen. While leaving lights on will use some energy, potential burglars will question whether or not someone is home, which may spare your property from invasion.
Does Your House Appear Empty?
If your walkways are covered in snow or there is mail piled up by your door, that’s a clear sign that nobody’s home. Storms may occur while you’re gone, so hire someone in advance to plow and shovel your entrances and walkways. You’ll be happy to come home to a clear driveway and less likely to experience a break-in while you’re away. Tell the postal service to hold your mail until your return. Your packages will be safe from the elements at the post office in your family’s absence.
Manning Home Inspections offers home inspection services to Palm Beach County and northern Broward County. Contact us to request our services.