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Locks, Lights, and More Your Complete Checklist For Holiday Home Safety

November 15, 20236 min read

Tech Savvy or Traditional Safety Tips:

The Best Ways to Keep Your Home Safe This Holiday

The holiday season, synonymous with joy and festivity, also ushers in an unfortunate rise in theft. Buzz McCallister's wry observation in "Home Alone" underscores the reality that even seemingly secure neighborhoods can face threats. To ensure your holidays remain a time of celebration rather than concern, we've meticulously crafted a comprehensive guide featuring six foolproof tips to prevent theft during this festive season and well into the future.

As the year winds down, many embark on journeys to visit loved ones or seek relaxation. However, this exodus often leaves homes vulnerable to theft, contributing to a surge in insurance claims. Incorporating the following mischief-deferring strategies will safeguard your home and precious belongings, ensuring a worry-free and joyous holiday season.

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Lock it Up:

Imagine the enchanting scene of Christmas morning, torn wrapping paper strewn around, and opened gifts under the tree. However, before you embark on your holiday travels to visit friends and family, resist the tradition of leaving gifts on display. While creating a holiday shrine of generosity is undoubtedly satisfying, it's wiser to stow away your gifts, treasures, and holiday cash in a secure location. Whether it's your car's trunk, a lockbox, or a discreet spot within your home, keeping these valuables out of sight deters potential intruders. Let them believe in the Grinch's mischievous antics rather than allowing them to spoil your festivities.

Moreover, in the spirit of cautious optimism, consider the psychological impact of this act. It protects your belongings physically and sends a powerful message to potential intruders: your home is a fortress, not an easy target. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and in this case, a little precautionary action can go a long way in preserving the magic of the season.

Install Deadbolts:

When contemplating home security, deadbolts emerge as a simple yet formidable addition. These mechanical or digital locks provide an added layer of defense against intruders. The design and locking mechanism make it tougher for anyone without the correct key to open the door, creating a robust barrier. In the modern era, you have the choice between traditional and smart deadbolts, both of which serve the same purpose: enhancing the security of your home.

Installing deadbolts is about protecting your physical space and safeguarding the intangible — your peace of mind. Knowing that your home is fortified against potential intruders lets you fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. It's an investment in your tangible assets and the immeasurable value of feeling secure within your space. As you install deadbolts, envision it as an act of empowerment, a step towards creating a haven where you can relish the festivities without a shadow of worry.

Reinforce Sliding Doors:

Sliding doors, often an architectural highlight, can be a potential weak point regarding home security. To fortify these vulnerable entry points, take the time to measure the space of the track and cut down a metal or wooden rod to brace the door. This simple yet effective DIY solution ensures that the door remains extra secure even if the lock is compromised.

Consider the reinforcement of sliding doors not merely as a security measure but as a proactive stance against potential vulnerabilities. Your home is a haven, and by fortifying these often overlooked entry points, you're establishing a sense of confidence. It's an empowering action that underscores your commitment to a safe and secure environment for you and your loved ones. It transforms your home into a sanctuary where the holiday season can be enjoyed with the utmost peace of mind.

Keep the Doors Locked:

Securing your winter wonderland involves more than just locking the front door. Take the time to double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked, including the door leading to the garage. Universal garage door openers have become a tool for many thieves looking to access empty homes. You add an extra layer of protection by keeping valuables out of the garage and investing in a reliable alarm system.

Think of this comprehensive approach to door security as weaving a tapestry of safety around your home. Each locked door becomes a thread contributing to the overall fabric of security. The garage, often overlooked, is a crucial part of this tapestry. By securing it and investing in an alarm system, you're protecting your belongings and creating a psychological barrier for potential intruders. This holistic approach ensures that your home remains an impenetrable fortress during the holiday season and beyond.

Use Timers:

When leaving your house for an extended period, it's crucial to maintain the appearance of an occupied home. This can be achieved by leaving lights on, but for a more convincing effect, consider using automatic light timers. These timers not only create the illusion of someone being home but also add an element of randomness, making it less predictable for potential intruders.

Consider using timers to choreograph light, sound, and activity that dissuades potential intruders. It's not just about imitating the presence of someone at home; it's about creating a dynamic living environment that confounds anyone with ill intentions. This strategic use of technology isn't just a security measure; it's a statement. It says, "This home is protected, and attempts to disturb its peace will be met with unpredictability." As you incorporate timers into your security strategy, envision it as a dance of deterrence, where your home takes center stage as a secure and vibrant space.

Block Prying Eyes:

Maintaining the security of your home extends beyond physical measures. Simple actions, such as closing blinds and curtains before leaving, can prevent prying eyes from assessing the contents of your home. Additionally, take extra precautions to ensure that evidence of high-value items, such as computers or TVs, is not visible in your trash or on the curb. Discreetly dispose of packaging, receipts, and gift-wrapping to avoid advertising your recent purchases.

Think of the privacy of your home as a shield against prying eyes, a curtain that not only conceals but also protects. It's not just about preventing theft; it's about creating a cocoon of privacy where the magic of the holidays can unfold undisturbed. Disposing evidence, be it in the form of packaging or receipts, is akin to removing breadcrumbs that could lead to unwanted attention to your door. As you close blinds and dispose of evidence, see it as preserving your space's sanctity, allowing you to revel in the holiday season without external interference.

In Conclusion:

By implementing these burglar-busting guidelines will not only enhance the security of your home during the holiday season but will provide lasting protection throughout the year. By taking proactive steps, such as locking up valuables, installing deadbolts, reinforcing sliding doors, keeping all entry points secure, using timers, and maintaining physical and online privacy, you're creating a fortress of protection.

Moreover, consider these actions as investments in your peace of mind, transforming your home into a sanctuary where the magic of the season can be fully embraced. As you unwrap your gifts and revel in the holiday spirit, rest assured that your home is fortified against any Grinch-like attempts

Have questions or need assistance in Finding Your Perfect Home? Reach out to our dedicated San Joaquin County real estate team. Your safety and happiness are our top priorities. Let's make this holiday season truly unforgettable by finding your dream home.

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C. Ray Brower

C. Ray has been in the real estate circle for years. His passion is teaching, training, and marketing.

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