Holiday Home Security Dos and Don’ts

The holiday season is a time of joy and celebration, but it can also be a vulnerable period for your home’s security. As families travel to visit loved ones, empty houses become tempting targets for burglars. Luckily, with some thoughtful preparation and smart strategies, you can protect your home and have peace of mind while you’re away.

This guide will walk you through some simple dos and don’ts from Los Angeles-based security expert Chris McGoey to help keep your home safe during the holidays.

Security Do: Light Up at Night

Lighting is one of the most effective ways to prevent a break-in. Use manual timers to turn indoor lights on and off in the evening to make it look like someone’s home. You can also use smart devices to control your lights remotely through your phone or tablet. The Belkin WeMo light switch is an excellent option.

To enhance your lighting strategy:

• Install motion-activated exterior lights around entry points.
• Vary the timing of your indoor lights to mimic natural occupancy patterns.
• Use smart bulbs that can be controlled remotely and programmed to change colors.

Good lighting provides visibility and gives the impression of an occupied home. Supplementing this with other lighting devices that you can manage remotely while you’re away will significantly upgrade your home’s security.

Security Don’t: Advertise Your Absence

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is inadvertently broadcasting their absence. To avoid this, take the following precautions:

• Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and newspaper daily.
• Resist the urge to update your social media status with travel plans or current location.
• Use privacy settings on social media to limit who can see your posts.
• Schedule some social media posts in advance to maintain normal online activity.

Remember, burglars often use social media to identify empty homes. By keeping your travel plans private, you reduce the risk of becoming a target.

Security Do: Reinforce Your Home’s Door

Your front door is your first line of defense. Unfortunately, many doors have weak spots that burglars can exploit. To strengthen your front door:

• Upgrade to a heavy-duty strike plate.
• Secure the strike plate to the doorframe using four 3-inch screws.
• Install a deadbolt for extra security.
• Use a video doorbell to monitor activity at your entrance and send real-time alerts and footage to your phone.

Security Don’t: Neglect Your Windows

While doors are a common entry point for burglars, windows can be just as vulnerable. In fact, 23% of break-ins happen through ground-floor windows. To secure these potential entry points, keep these tips in mind:

• Insert sash pins to secure double-hung windows.
• Arm windows with wireless alarms.
• Install window locks or key-operated levers.
• Use window security film to make glass harder to break.

These added layers of security can make it more difficult for intruders to get in. Window security films also offer additional protection against shattered glass during severe weather, providing another benefit.

Additional Home Security Measures

Beyond the basic dos and don’ts, here are a few more tips to enhance your home’s security during the holidays:

• Install a home security system with 24/7 monitoring.
• Use smart devices, like automated blinds or TV simulators, to make it look like someone is home.
• Trim bushes and trees near windows to eliminate hiding spots for burglars.
• Store your valuable items in a safe or off-site safe deposit box.
• Ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway occasionally.

Preparing Your Home for Extended Absence

If you’re planning to be away for an extended period, take these extra precautions:

• Arrange for someone to take care of your lawn or remove snow to keep up the lived-in appearance.
• Put indoor lights on variable timers for a more natural look.
• Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check on your house regularly.
• Unplug non-essential appliances to prevent fires.
• Adjust the thermostat to save energy, but leave some heat on to avoid frozen pipes.

Maintaining a “lived-in” look while you’re away is key. Regular check-ins from a neighbor or friend can help catch any issues early and give you peace of mind.