The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and spending quality moments with loved ones. However, amidst all the festivities, it’s crucial to ensure the safety and security of your home. With increased travel and vacant homes, the holidays can present various risks. In this blog, we’ll explore five essential tips to help you keep your home safe during this time of year.

Secure All Entry Points

Before leaving for your holiday getaway, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. Consider installing deadbolts or smart locks for added security. Don’t forget about the garage doors and side entrances, which are often overlooked yet can be prime entry points for burglars.

An often overlooked entry point is the window in a secluded area of your home. Reinforcing these windows with security film can make them resistant to breakage and add an extra layer of defense. Additionally, ensure that your sliding doors have adequate locks or a rod in the track to prevent forced entry. For those wanting an extra measure, glass break sensors added to your security system can alert you immediately if a window is tampered with.

Invest in a Reliable Security System

A modern security system can be your first line of defense. Look for systems with surveillance cameras, motion detectors, and perhaps an alarm service that notifies you and the authorities if suspicious activity is detected. Many modern systems can be monitored via apps, keeping you informed even when you’re away.

Consider systems that integrate with other smart home devices, allowing you to control everything from your lights to your thermostat remotely. Some systems even offer facial recognition, alerting you to familiar or unfamiliar faces around your property. The added benefit of cloud storage for surveillance footage can be invaluable for security purposes, ensuring video evidence is accessible if needed.

Use Smart Lighting to Deter Intruders

Smart lights can create the illusion of someone being home, deterring potential intruders. Set timers for lights or invest in smart bulbs that can be controlled remotely, ensuring that your home looks occupied no matter how far away you are during the holidays.

Strategically positioning smart lights can enhance their effectiveness. For instance, having lights turn on and off in different rooms at varying times mimics typical home activity. Consider also installing outdoor motion-activated lights which can startle and deter potential intruders, calling attention to their presence. These layers of light patterns make it harder for an observer to deduce your actual occupancy schedule.

Be Mindful of Social Media Sharing

While it’s tempting to share every moment of your holiday fun on social media, doing so can signal to would-be burglars that your home is unoccupied. Consider sharing your vacation photos and updates after you return to avoid alerting anyone that your home is empty.

Adjusting privacy settings on your social media accounts can limit who views your posts, reducing the risk of exposing your absence to strangers. Sharing within private groups or using direct message services can keep your updates more secure. Additionally, avoid posting details like your vacation schedule or specific travel times, and remind family members to be cautious with their social media activity as well.

Enlist the Help of Trusted Neighbors

Having a trustworthy neighbor keep an eye on your property can be invaluable. They can collect mail, check for any unusual activity, and even occasionally park in your driveway to give the appearance that someone is home. Building a community watch can further enhance neighborhood safety.

Establish a reciprocal relationship with neighbors where you can do the same for them, nurturing a network of support and trust. Consider leaving a contact number with them in case of emergencies or suspicious activity. If you’re part of a neighborhood app or forum, such as Nextdoor, utilize that platform for updates and encourage vigilance. These communal efforts can significantly enhance the overall safety of your neighborhood during the holiday season.

Stay Secure and Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season

By taking these proactive steps, you can ensure your home remains a safe haven even while you’re enjoying the holiday season elsewhere. Security doesn’t have to overshadow your festivities; with these simple precautions, you can celebrate with peace of mind.