How to prevent festive holiday burglaries

Tis the season to be jolly, and we by no means want to put a downer on your festive cheer,  but unfortunately opportunist criminals often use this season as a perfect time to break into others’ properties. With festivities a plenty and busy schedules all round,  it’s easy to forget the simple things such as ensuring your home is safely secured.

Whether you’re out of the county visiting friends and family, or staying in Norfolk but enjoying parties and outings it’s important to consider how your property could be targeted by thieves. You don’t have to go to Kevin McAllister levels to protect your home while you’re away, there’s several ways to prevent your home falling victim. So, with these simple tips we hope you have a very merry Christmas. 

Lock up 

First things first, let’s start with the basics. Whilst this is of course an obvious point, whilst you’re spinning so many plates it can be easily forgotten. This easy mistake could not only cost your security, but would also void any insurance claim should anything happen. But thankfully it’s an easy mistake to avoid. 

Always double check your doors and window locks, before you call it a night and of course if you’re leaving your property for a prolonged period of time, ensure you do the rounds of checking these before you set off. 

Home security 

Interior and exterior cameras have become more and more sophisticated over recent years and you can keep an eye on your home from your phone 24hrs a day. Not only does this provide constant peace of mind it also prevents any intruders from attempting to enter your property. 

Whilst a home security system sounds expensive, there are plenty of affordable options available with different levels of security for your home. 

Trusty neighbours? 

If you’re leaving your property for a few days then it might be worth telling a trusted friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your house. Better still remind them to take your bin out and keep an eye out for any mail that might be hanging out of your letter box. These are tell tale signs that you’re not at home and are a welcome sight for thieves looking for an easy target. 

Keep Valuables out of sight 

It goes without saying you shouldn’t flaunt any valuables to outsiders, however this can be easily forgotten when you’re adding presents under your tree. Keeping these out of sight of windows and doors is important. 

Light it up

Setting timers for lights or even blinds and curtains is a great way to give the illusion of yourself being at home whilst you’re out and about. 

Timer plugs are super affordable and with devices such as Alexa and Google makes it even easier to set lights to come on and off. 

Whilst we can advise you on how to keep your property safe, if you have any issues with burglaries, or simply get yourself locked out after a few too many mulled wines, you can still call us 24/7 if you are in need of a trusty, reliable locksmith.