According to the FBI, nearly 400,000 burglaries occur in the U.S. from November through December each year! Believe it or not, burglars watch properties for patterns of behavior noting times when you are home and times when you aren’t. Leaving inside lights on and a TV playing can be a deterrent to the would-be burglar. Obviously, if you are away it’s harder for a would-be burglar to notice if you are sure to keep the garage door closed.
So, to ensure that an intruder doesn’t dampen your holiday season here are a few tips to keep in mind:
*Ask someone, possibly a friend or neighbor to pick up your newspaper and mail each day.
* You may even consider asking your neighbor to park their car in your driveway just to give it that “occupied” look & feel.
* Even though snow may be rare in our area, be prepared while away by asking a friend or neighbor to clear sidewalks & driveway if necessary.
*Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through windows and doors.
* Nowhere else is your home more fragile and susceptible to a forced holiday break-in than your windows. How you secure your windows is up to you, but it's important to keep in mind that occupants must be able to open them easily in the event of a fire. Therefore, the security device you choose should not lock you in the building, but only keep burglars out.
*When setting up a Christmas tree or other holiday display, make sure doors and passageways are clear inside your home.
*Be sure your Christmas tree is mounted on a sturdy base so children, elderly persons or family pets cannot pull it over on themselves.
*To avoid risk of fire check for frayed wiring on your Christmas lights, place your live Christmas tree in water or wet sand to keep it green, and never place wrapping paper in your fireplace.
Whether you travel or stay home for the Holidays, please have a safe and happy holiday this year!
Looking for a home for the holidays?
Call/ Text or Email me anytime!
~ Tanya
