Christmas is the season of fun, families, parties and togetherness. However, it’s also a time when homes become prime targets for burglars. With many families travelling to visit loved ones, gifts stored under the tree and increased home deliveries, break-ins tend to spike around Christmas. While Santa may be welcome to slide down your chimney, you certainly don’t want burglars finding their way inside. Here are some essential tips to keep your home safe and secure this holiday season.
1. Secure Your Doors and Windows
It might sound obvious, but many burglars enter through unlocked doors or windows. Before leaving on a trip or heading to bed, always do a full check to ensure all doors, windows and garages are securely locked. If your locks are old, now is the time to upgrade them. High-security deadbolts and locks which conform to BS3621 or TS0007 standards offer added protection, making it much harder for intruders to gain access.
UPVC doors are another vulnerable entry point. Make sure they have high security anti-snap cylinder locks installed to prevent them from being snapped open.
3. Use Timers for Lights and Decorations
A dark home is an invitation for burglars. Use timers to turn on lights both inside and outside your house at specific intervals to create the illusion that someone is home. For added protection, motion-sensor lights can deter anyone trying to sneak around your property under cover of darkness. Consider putting Christmas LED light decorations (inside and out) on a timer as well. LED lights are low energy and designed to run for a long time without overheating. But make sure you buy them from a reputable shop.
4. Be Smart About Deliveries
Online shopping peaks during the Christmas period, leading to lots of packages being left on doorsteps. This is the perfect opportunity for ‘porch pirates’, which are becoming a growing problem in the UK. If you’re expecting deliveries and there is a chance that you won’t be in, it may be a good idea to request that packages require a signature. Other options include using parcel lockers or having items sent to a neighbour or your workplace.
A smart video doorbell is also a great investment. It allows you to monitor deliveries, communicate with visitors and keep an eye on your front door from wherever you are.
5. Don’t Advertise Your Holiday Plans
Many families travel during Christmas to visit loved ones or enjoy a well-deserved break. While it’s tempting to share your plans and travel photos on social media, this can inadvertently tip off potential burglars that your home is empty. Instead, save the posts for when you return.
To make it less obvious that you’re away, consider asking a trusted neighbour or friend to collect your post or packages. Visible post on the mat or packages left outside is a clear sign no one’s home.
5. Install or Upgrade Your Security Systems
If you don’t already have a home security system, now is the perfect time to install one. Modern systems include cameras, alarms and motion detectors, providing real-time alerts and video footage in case of suspicious activity. Wireless systems have recently come down in price due to their growing popularity. They are also much quicker to install, portable and provide a good range of functionality. But even a visible simple dummy security sign or camera on your home can deter burglars.
6. Avoid Leaving Gifts in Plain Sight
It seems obvious but many people still place their beautifully wrapped presents under their Christmas tree placed in a window at street level. It just takes one passing opportunist burglar to spot them and start planning their unlawful entry. For this reason, it makes sense to always keep gifts out of view from windows or doors. After Christmas, avoid leaving the empty boxes from expensive items like TVs or gaming consoles outside as this is an advert for what’s inside your home. Flatten boxes and dispose of them discreetly.
7. Keep Your Spare Key Safe
You may not believe this, but many homeowners still leave spare keys under doormats, potted plants, or in other obvious spots. Burglars know where to look. If you need a spare key, leave it with a trusted friend, neighbour, or invest in a secure key safe.
Final Thoughts
While Christmas is about opening doors to friends and family, it’s important to keep them closed to potential intruders. Taking a few precautionary steps, like upgrading your locks, securing your windows, and being smart about deliveries, can make all the difference. This season, let Santa be the only one sneaking into your home unannounced!
Hero Locksmith is a highly rated Trusted Trader locksmith in Edinburgh. Please get in touch if you need any help with your locks.