Safeguard Your Home and Deliveries This Holiday Season With These Tips

Open Amazon package on doorstep doormat.

The holiday season can be a prime time for criminals, leaving homes and packages vulnerable to theft and burglary.

At a Glance

Nearly 19% of Americans have experienced package theft in the past year.
Invest in smart security devices and network with neighbors to prevent theft.
Proactive measures help protect your home and deliveries during the holidays.
The holiday season increases theft due to distractions and visible valuables.

Rising Concerns for Holiday Security

Package theft and home burglaries increase during the holiday season as crimes of opportunity, leaving many Americans impacted. A report highlights that nearly 19% of Americans have experienced package theft in the past year. Taking actions like sending packages to alternate addresses or utilizing work delivery options are common measures people implement to combat theft.

Besides package theft, homes can become targets for burglars. Measures to safeguard your residence include installing secondary locks on doors, ensuring windows remain secured, and keeping valuables out of sight. Tighten security by networking with neighbors, installing security cameras or smart doorbells, and using smart locks to deter potential criminals.

Enhancing Home Safety

Securing your home during the holidays requires employing a few key strategies. Timed lighting systems can help make your house appear occupied, even when you are away, and using smart locks, dead-bolt locks, or window grates adds another layer of protection. Consider having a trusted neighbor watch your home or monitor the mail while away, minimizing the risk of any unwelcome surprises upon your return.

General safety tips such as not hiding spare keys outside, securing ladders and tools, and avoiding leaving high-value items in plain sight are vital. Moreover, revealing travel plans on social media can inadvertently invite thieves; restraint in sharing such information is advisable. These precautionary measures can also potentially reduce home insurance premiums.

Securing Holiday Deliveries

To prevent package theft, use tracking services provided by delivery companies, and consider using parcel lockers or requesting a signature upon delivery for added security. If possible, synchronize deliveries with times you are home or assign secure delivery locations. In case of theft, promptly verify delivery, gather information about the thief if possible, and report it to authorities and the company responsible for the package’s delivery.

These thoughtful and proactive measures not only mitigate the risk of theft but also assure a worry-free holiday. Staying vigilant, investing in home security systems, and employing community support strengthens your defenses against holiday criminals, safeguarding your festive spirit and valuable belongings alike.