Be Cautious This Christmas
The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness, but with homes filled with gifts, and many people going away to visit friends and family, or simply to have a holiday, thieves may also be celebrating a little bit more at your expense.
With Christmas just around the corner, now’s the time to review and enhance your home security measures to protect your property and loved ones in this busy time.
As well as reducing the threat of a break-in, adding additional security features to your home may also save you money in terms of home insurance premiums, and could add value to your home.
Here are some strategies to consider which may help improve your home security:
1. Assess your current security measures
Before implementing any new security features, it’s essential to evaluate your existing systems. Run through your home and take note of any vulnerabilities:
- Locks: Are your doors and windows equipped with sturdy locks? Consider upgrading to deadbolts for added security.
- Lighting: Is your home well-lit? Motion-sensor lights can deter potential intruders by eliminating dark areas where they may hide.
- Alarm Systems: If you have an existing security system, check its functionality. Ensure alarms and cameras are operational and consider updating the software to the latest version if applicable.
2. Invest in smart home technology
Smart home devices can significantly enhance your home security. Consider these options:
- Smart Locks: These allow you to lock and unlock your doors remotely. You can also set unique access codes for trusted visitors, like house sitters or friends.
- Security Cameras: Indoor and outdoor cameras can provide peace of mind, with real-time monitoring and recording capabilities. Look for systems that integrate with your smartphone for alerts and remote viewing.
- Video Doorbells: These allow you to see and communicate with visitors at your doorstep, deterring potential burglars. They also offer the added benefit of monitoring deliveries during the busy holiday season.
3. Secure your packages
The holiday season is notorious for parcel theft. Try to schedule deliveries at a time when you are home. Alternatively, consider having packages delivered to a secure location, such as a local store or a friend’s house.
4. Prepare your home when travelling
If you and your family plan to travel for the holidays, don’t make it easy for burglars to know your home is empty:
- Suspend mail delivery: Use a mail hold service or ask a neighbour/friend to regularly collect your mail and packages while you’re away.
- Create the illusion of occupancy: Use smart lights to create a schedule that mimics your daily routine. This way, it looks like someone is home even when you’re not.
- Ask for help: Ask trusted friends/neighbours to check while you’re away, and ask them to report anything suspicious. A simple ‘check-in’ can dissuade potential intruders. Or get a house sitter.
5. Secure your valuables
Christmas often means receiving new electronics, jewellery, or other expensive gifts, which could make your home a target for thieves.
- Don’t leave gifts in plain sight: If you’re hosting Christmas gatherings or putting presents under the tree, ensure that no valuable items are visible from windows or doors. Keep presents out of sight until Christmas morning, and avoid displaying high-value items near windows.
- Install a safe for expensive items: For valuables like jewellery, cash, and important documents, invest in a high-quality safe that is hidden from view and bolted to the floor or wall. This adds an extra layer of protection against theft.
- Don’t post gifts on social media: While it’s tempting to share your Christmas haul online, avoid posting pictures of high-value items, like new tech gadgets, gifts, or expensive electronics, which could attract unwanted attention.
5. Be vigilant and aware of scams
While we’re discussing house security, the Christmas season is also a time when scams and fraudulent activities increase.
- Monitor your credit and bank accounts: Watch for any unusual activity in your financial accounts or credit cards, especially if you’re making larger holiday purchases. Scammers often take advantage of the holiday rush to carry out identity theft or fraudulent transactions.
- Be aware of holiday scams: Be vigilant when shopping online, especially with offers that seem too good to be true. Only purchase from reputable sites and use secure payment methods to protect your personal and financial information.
Whether you’re selling with us, or using our property management services, as a family run business, we consider you as our extended family – and like any family, we want you to be safe and protected.
If selling is on the cards for 2025, or you’re considering options and want to know what your house could get in today’s market, contact us for a free, independent and non-obligatory quote. Our experienced team will also suggest quick and cost-effective upgrades to consider making so you can get the best price for your property.
Drop into our Cardiff office, give us a call on 02 4954 8833 or send us an email to: mail@apnewcastle.com.au.
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