Safeguarding Your Home During the Festive Season: Expert Tips from SAS Security
Stick around for some extra holiday cheer - bonus security tips await!
As the festive season approaches, homes across the country are transformed into havens of cheer and merriment. However, this joyous time also presents an opportunity for opportunistic burglars to target homes left vulnerable during the holiday rush.
To ensure your home remains secure and your belongings protected, SAS Security, Lancashire’s leading provider of CCTV, alarms, and access control solutions, shares essential Christmas home security tips to safeguard your home during the festive season:
Hide Gifts Strategically
While the sight of beautifully wrapped Christmas presents adorning your living room is undeniably festive, it also serves as a beacon for opportunistic burglars. To avoid tempting unwanted guests, consider storing your gifts in a secure location, such as the loft or a locked cupboard, until Christmas Eve.
Install Security Lights for Enhanced Deterrence
Dark nights provide the perfect cover for burglars, making it crucial to install motion-sensor-activated security lights around your property. These lights will automatically illuminate when movement is detected, startling potential intruders and discouraging them from attempting a break-in.
Utilise Automatic Lights for a Lived-in Appearance
Even when you’re away or at work, automated lighting systems can create a sense of occupancy, making it less likely for burglars to target your home. Set timers to activate lights in various rooms throughout the day, simulating the presence of someone inside.
Dispose of Gift Packaging Discreetly
After the excitement of Christmas Day, it’s tempting to leave empty gift boxes piled up by the fireplace or on open view waiting for bin collection. However, these discarded boxes serve as a roadmap of valuable items for burglars. Break down the boxes and dispose of them promptly, either by recycling or taking them to a bin away from your home.
Plan Ahead for Safe Holidays
If you’re planning a Christmas getaway, be proactive in securing your home. Cancel unnecessary deliveries, such as newspapers or milk, to avoid creating an impression that you’re away. Ask a trusted neighbour to park their car in your driveway to maintain an occupied look.
Be Discreet on Social Media
Social media can inadvertently provide valuable information to burglars. Avoid posting details about your Christmas plans, including travel dates or the fact that your home will be empty. Refrain from uploading photos of expensive gifts, as this could attract unwanted attention.
Secure Doors and Windows with Extra Care
According to research, 67% of burglars gain entry through doors and 29% through windows. Regularly inspect your door and window locks to ensure they are functioning properly. Replace any damaged or outdated locks with high-security alternatives.
Consider Smart CCTV for Comprehensive Security
Harness the power of CCTV to deter potential burglars and keep an eye on your home when you’re away. Smart CCTV systems allow you to remotely monitor your property via your smartphone or tablet, providing peace of mind and enabling you to take action in case of any suspicious activity.
Install Video Doorbells for Enhanced Security
Video doorbells provide an extra layer of security by enabling you to see and communicate with visitors before opening the door. This can discourage unwanted visitors and allow you to confirm the identity of individuals approaching your home.
Consider installing a security system.
A security system can provide a significant deterrent to burglars and can also help you to catch them in the act. When choosing a security system, consider factors such as the type of alarm, the number of sensors, and the monitoring options.
Illuminate your property with Christmas lights
Brightly lit homes are less attractive to burglars, as they make it more difficult for them to approach your home undetected. When hanging Christmas lights, be sure to use high-quality lights that are properly rated for outdoor use. You should also avoid placing lights on trees or bushes that can provide cover for burglars.
Install motion-sensor lights in hidden areas
Burglars often case a property before attempting a break-in. Placing motion-sensor lights in areas that are difficult to see from the street can deter burglars and alert you to their presence.
Keep your doors and windows locked.
It may seem obvious, but it’s important to remember to lock your doors and windows at all times, even when you are home. Burglars can often gain entry to a home through unlocked doors and windows.
Trim bushes and trees around your home.
Burglars often use overgrown vegetation as cover to approach a home unseen. Trimming bushes and trees around windows and doors can make it more difficult for burglars to hide and can also improve your visibility of the surrounding area.
Don't leave valuables in plain sight
If you have valuable items in your home, such as jewellery or electronics, be sure to store them in a safe place. If you must leave them out, be sure to hide them out of sight or place them in a locked container.
Bonus Tip:
Personalise Your Video Doorbell Chime with Festive Music
Add a touch of holiday cheer to your video doorbell experience by setting a custom chime that plays Christmas carols or festive tunes. This will not only enhance the ambiance of your home but also serve as a friendly reminder of the season, discouraging intruders from targeting your property.
Contact SAS Security for Comprehensive Protection
At SAS Security, we understand the importance of ensuring your home remains safe and secure throughout the year, and particularly during the festive season. Our expert team can assess your home security needs and recommend the most suitable CCTV, alarm, and access control solutions to safeguard your property and belongings.
Contact us today to discuss your specific security requirements and let us help you create a safe and secure environment for the holidays and beyond.
