Joy, celebration, and spending time with loved ones are all part of the holiday season. Unfortunately, because criminals target residences that are easily accessible or left unattended, burglaries also tend to increase around this period. This should not deter you from celebrating; use these easy and practical tips to protect your house from intruders this holiday season!

Tip 1. Installing security cameras and motion-sensing lights against intruders

Installing security cameras and motion-sensing lights is one of the best ways to deter burglars. These devices make it much more difficult for burglars to enter your home undetected. You can monitor activity around your house with security cameras, and you and your neighbors can be promptly informed of any suspicious activity with motion-sensing lights. Whether you’re at home or away, investing in these systems can provide you peace of mind.

Tip 2. Use Remote monitoring smart home technology. 

Thanks to technology, keeping an eye on your house while you’re away now simpler than ever. Smart home appliances such as home security systems, smart locks, and doorbell cameras allow you to monitor your property from any location. Many systems can notify you in real-time via your phone when someone enters or approaches your house, allowing you to take appropriate action. 

Tip 3. Keep Your Holiday Presents Hidden.

Gifts may be everywhere in your house during the holidays but leaving them on display from the outside invite’s criminals. Keeping gifts under the tree close to windows will make robbers more likely to break in and take them. As an alternative, keep presents hidden in rooms or closets. If you’re wrapping presents in advance, you might want to store them in a basement or attic where they won’t be noticed. 

Tip 4. Avoid Posting About Your Absence on Social Media

Although it’s normal to want to use social media to tell friends and family about your holiday plans, posting openly about your absence can provide intruders with a route to your house. Watch what you share and when you share it. Wait to share your experience till you’re returned, rather than publishing right away. Another option is to change the privacy settings on your social media accounts to restrict who can view your posts.

Tip 5. Safeguard doors and windows.

Lock windows and doors before leaving for your holiday getaway, make sure that all windows and doors are closed and safe. Remember to include additional entry points, such as basement windows or garage doors. Consider installing a rod or security bar to keep your sliding glass doors from being forced open. Additionally, entry doors may be made much more secure with deadbolts, so be sure all of your locks are in good working order.

Tip 6. Maintain a clean yard

Having a well-kept lawn can show criminals that your house is occupied and well-maintained, which may discourage them from breaking into your house. If you will be away, think about asking a friend or neighbor to shovel the snow, mow the lawn, or pick up your mail, depending on the season. A well-kept yard deters intruders from taking the chance because it appears as though someone is home.

Tip 7. Install a Timed Lighting System

Installing a timed lighting system is a simple way to make it appear as though someone is home. You can program the lights to turn on and off at different times, making it difficult for intruders to determine whether your house is unoccupied. Timed lights work particularly well when they are placed close to driveways, porches, and entryways.

Tip 8. Maintain a cordial relationship with neighbors

Have a reliable neighbor watch your house while you’re away. They may assist by putting their car in your driveway to give the appearance that someone is home. Additionally, neighbors can be the first to notice any suspicious behavior and promptly report it, which increases the likelihood that a break-in won’t occur. 

Tip 9.  Avoid Leaving Extra Keys Outside

Although leaving an extra key in a secret location outdoors or beneath the doormat can be convenient, robbers are aware of all the typical hiding spots. Alternatively, use a smart lock with a code that you can share with trustworthy people or leave an extra key with a friend or neighbor.

Conclusion

The holidays are a time of happiness rather than anxiety over your home’s security. Following these easy steps can let you enjoy your vacation with peace of mind and drastically lower your chance of burglary. Keeping your house safe and secure against intruders over the holiday season can be achieved by taking the right steps, whether you’re at home or abroad. See our article on personal safety.