Tips for a Safer Holiday Home

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, for many, travel. Whether you’re heading out of town or staying home, it’s essential to prioritize the safety and security of your property. As your trusted real estate professionals, we’ve gathered some practical tips to help you protect your home and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.

1. Secure All Entry Points

Before leaving for holiday trips, double-check that all doors and windows are locked. Consider these upgrades for added security:

• Install deadbolt locks on exterior doors.
• Use window security film or locks to make windows more resistant to forced entry.
• If you have a sliding door, place a security bar or wooden dowel in the track.

2. Invest in Smart Home Technology

Smart home devices can help you monitor and control your home remotely:

• Smart doorbells with cameras let you see who’s at your door, even when you’re away.
• Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock doors remotely.
• Smart lighting can be programmed to turn on and off at various times, giving the impression someone is home.

3. Light Up Your Exterior

A well-lit exterior is a deterrent to potential intruders. Consider:

• Installing motion-sensor lights around entry points.
• Using solar-powered pathway lights to illuminate walkways and driveways.
• Keeping holiday decorations bright, but make sure cords and lights are weatherproof.

4. Manage Deliveries

Packages left unattended can attract thieves. To keep your deliveries safe:

• Use an Amazon Locker or a similar service.
• Ask a neighbor or friend to pick up packages for you.
• Install a package delivery box with a secure lock on your porch.

5. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Don’t advertise valuables to passersby:

• Close curtains or blinds, especially at night.
• Avoid placing expensive electronics or gifts near windows.

6. Be Mindful of Social Media

While it’s tempting to share your holiday adventures in real-time, it’s safer to:

• Post vacation photos and updates after you return.
• Avoid mentioning exact travel dates or locations online.

7. Ask a Trusted Neighbor for Help

Enlist a neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. They can:

• Collect mail and newspapers to prevent them from piling up.
• Take out and bring in trash bins on collection day.
• Notify you of any unusual activity around your property.

8. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Review your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to ensure it covers potential holiday-related risks like theft or damage from holiday lights.

9. Prepare for Winter Weather

If you live in an area prone to snow and freezing temperatures, prepare your home for winter:

• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting.
• Set the thermostat to a safe temperature to avoid frozen pipes.
• Arrange for snow removal if you’ll be away during a snowstorm. 

10. Set Up a Home Security System

A professionally monitored security system provides peace of mind and may lower your insurance premiums. Look for systems that offer:

• 24/7 monitoring.
• Mobile alerts for unusual activity.
• Integration with smart home devices for added convenience.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your home is safe and secure during the holiday season. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, peace of mind is priceless, and a little preparation goes a long way. If you have any questions or need recommendations for trusted local service providers, feel free to reach out – we’re here to help!

Happy Holidays and stay safe! 🎄🏠

Dave & Kris