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However, the hustle and bustle of Christmas can sometimes leave your home vulnerable to theft, accidents, or other security risks.
To ensure your holidays are filled with joy and peace of mind, follow these practical tips to keep your home and property safe this Christmas.
1. Secure Your Home Before Travelling
If you're heading away for the holidays, take steps to make your home look occupied:
Use timers for lights. Set indoor and outdoor lights to turn on and off automatically in the evening.
Pause deliveries. Post piling up can signal that no one is home. Arrange for a neighbour to collect it or use a hold service.
Lock up thoroughly. Double-check all windows and doors, including those in garages, sheds, or outbuildings.
Don’t advertise your absence. Avoid posting holiday plans or travel photos on social media until you return.
2. Enhance Your Home Security
Investing in a few key security measures can deter opportunistic thieves:
Install a visible alarm system. A home alarm can scare off intruders and alert you or your neighbours to a break-in attempt.
Upgrade locks and doors. Ensure all entry points are fitted with high-quality locks.
Consider a video doorbell. These allow you to monitor visitors and receive alerts, even when you're away.
Motion-detecting lights. Bright outdoor lighting can deter criminals from approaching your property at night.
3. Protect Valuables Inside
Your Christmas gifts and other valuables can be tempting for burglars. Take steps to protect them:
Keep presents out of sight. Avoid placing gifts in plain view of windows.
Mark your valuables. Use a UV pen to write your postcode on high-value items.
Lock up expensive items. Secure jewellery, electronics, and other valuable items in a safe.
Be mindful of packaging. Discreetly dispose of boxes from high-value purchases, like TVs or gaming consoles, to avoid advertising your new items.
4. Light Up Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor decorations are a wonderful way to spread Christmas cheer, but they can also attract unwanted attention:
Secure decorations. Use clips or ties to prevent them from being easily removed.
Invest in smart plugs. Outdoor lights can be set on timers or remotely controlled to avoid leaving them on unnecessarily.
Protect power sources. Keep outdoor extension cords and outlets in secure, weatherproof covers to prevent tampering or damage.
5. Fire Safety Precautions
Christmas also comes with increased fire risks due to decorations, candles, and cooking:
Inspect Christmas lights. Replace any damaged strings of lights and ensure they meet safety standards.
Be cautious with candles. Keep candles away from flammable decorations and never leave them unattended.
Check smoke alarms. Ensure all alarms are functional and batteries are fresh.
Water your tree. If you have a real Christmas tree, keep it hydrated to reduce the risk of fire.
6. Stay Vigilant During the Holidays
Be wary of delivery scams. Criminals often take advantage of increased parcel deliveries to commit fraud. Verify emails and texts before clicking on links.
Keep an eye on your neighbourhood. Watch for unusual activity and report anything suspicious.
Use a trusted neighbour. Ask someone you trust to check on your home if you're away for extended periods.
7. Protect Your Car
Vehicles can also be a target for theft over Christmas:
Hide valuables. Keep bags, gifts, and other items out of sight.
Park in well-lit areas. Choose safe locations and avoid leaving your car in dark, secluded spots.
Lock it up. Always double-check that doors, windows, and the boot are locked.
Enjoy a Safe and Happy Christmas
By taking these precautions, you can reduce the risk of disruptions during the holidays and focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. Wishing you a safe, secure, and joyful Christmas!
This Essex-based company will be able to offer you advice http://www.mysecuregarden.co.uk
What are your top tips for home safety during the holidays? Let us know in the comments!
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