Security Tips

This is the time of the year when we are bustling around getting ready for the holidays and home security may not be foremost in our thoughts. We tend to be out a lot more than usual doing holiday shopping and attending get-togethers and parties. It’s simply a busy time and burglars are opportunists – they will gladly take advantage of the fact you are preoccupied with other things and break into your home when you least expect it.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings When Holiday Shopping

The entire break and enter criminal element that resides in your city is well aware that you are spending a lot of money on expensive items you intend to give as gifts. When you are out shopping be sure to park your car in a well-lit public parking facility away from shadows and trees or bushes where thieves can hide. Remember to lock your car when you leave it. Never stacks boxes and bags with your purchases in the back seat where they can be seen by passersby. This is too much of a temptation so keep them hidden in your locked trunk.

When you get home with your purchases put them away in a hidden location. It’s not so much about keeping them a surprise as making it more of a challenge for unwanted intruders looking for free gifts. Do not leave them sitting out in the open or in front of windows. Beware of unloading your vehicle, especially if you get home after dark. Make sure the exterior of your home is well-lit and keep your eyes open for suspicious characters lurking around the neighborhood.

Give Yourself the Gift of Peace of Mind

If you plan to be out for any length of time at a holiday gathering lock all your windows and doors. Arm your home security system as you leave. If you don’t have a security system, this is a perfect time to purchase one. Place your order before the gift opening happens – this is another high risk time for neighborhoods. Burglars can’t wait to break in at the peak of the holidays because they know your home is filled with items they can exchange for cash.