As the festive season of Christmas draws near, bringing with it joy and celebration, it’s also essential to stay vigilant about home security. While the focus is often on festivities and family, unfortunately, this time of year can also attract opportunistic thieves. To help safeguard your property during the holidays, here are some expert tips to keep your home and valuables secure.

Keep Gifts Hidden from View

While it’s a festive tradition to place Christmas presents under the tree, displaying them too early or in plain sight can invite unwanted attention.

To reduce the risk of attracting burglars, consider positioning your tree in a less visible spot, especially away from windows that face the street. Keeping gifts out of direct sight will minimize the chances of drawing the attention of potential thieves.

Ensure Safe Installation of Christmas Lights

Decorating your home with twinkling lights is part of the holiday magic, but safety should always come first. Ensure your lights are securely installed, using outdoor electrical sockets designed specifically for external use. Avoid running electrical cords through windows or doors that have to be left partially open, as this could compromise both your security and safety.

Be Cautious with Packaging Disposal

Once Christmas is over and presents have been unwrapped, don’t forget that the packaging you discard can offer clues to what’s inside your home. Boxes from expensive electronics or gadgets left by the curb can alert potential burglars to the presence of high-value items.

Instead of leaving empty boxes or wrapping paper out in plain view, store them in a garage or shed until trash collection day. This simple step helps to keep prying eyes from knowing what valuables you have inside.

Don’t Advertise Your Absence

With many families traveling during the holiday season, it’s important to be careful about sharing your plans on social media. Announcing that your home will be vacant can unintentionally alert strangers, increasing the risk of burglary.

Rather than posting your holiday plans in real-time, wait until you return to share photos or updates from your trip. This will help protect your home from being targeted while you’re away.

Create the Illusion of Occupancy

A great way to deter burglars is to make it seem like someone is home, even if you’re out. Simple devices like timers for your lights can automatically switch them on and off, giving the impression that the house is occupied.

Additionally, outdoor lights with dusk-to-dawn sensors and devices like fake TVs can further enhance the appearance of activity around your property, helping to keep intruders at bay.

Have a Locksmith on Standby

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s not uncommon to misplace or forget your keys. To avoid being stranded outside, it’s wise to save the contact details of a reliable, OFQUAL-approved locksmith in your phone. Many locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services, even on holidays, so you’ll have peace of mind knowing help is readily available if needed.

By following these practical tips, you can enjoy a secure and stress-free Christmas season. Taking a few extra precautions will allow you to focus on the joy of the holidays, knowing your home and belongings are well-protected.