The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and spending quality moments with loved ones. However, it’s also essential to prioritise the safety and security of your home, especially during Christmas when the hustle and bustle can sometimes create opportunities for security lapses. In this blog post, we’ll explore practical tips to keep your home safe and secure, allowing you to fully enjoy the festive season without worry.

Illuminate Your Exterior

One of the most effective deterrents for potential intruders is a well-lit exterior. Take advantage of the festive spirit by decorating your home with Christmas lights. Opt for motion-activated lights around entry points, pathways, and dark corners. This not only adds a cheerful ambiance but also discourages unwanted visitors by making your property more visible. Simply pay a quick visit to your local Expert Hardware and ask for help – we stock a wide range of outdoors and indoors lighting options for Christmas and every day.

Secure Doors and Windows

Ensure that all entry points to your home are properly secured. Install deadbolt locks on doors and reinforce windows with sturdy locks. Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to monitor and control access remotely. During holiday gatherings, be mindful of doors left ajar and encourage guests to close them securely.

Establish a Neighbourly Connection

Building a strong sense of community is not only heartwarming during the holidays but also contributes to the overall security of your neighbourhood. Establish a good relationship with your neighbours and communicate your travel plans if you’re leaving for an extended period. They can keep an eye on your property and alert you or the authorities if anything seems amiss.

Be Mindful of Social Media

While it’s tempting to share the excitement of your holiday preparations and travels on social media, exercise caution. Avoid broadcasting your absence from home, as this information can be exploited by potential burglars. Save the sharing for after your return to ensure that your home remains secure while you’re away.

Install a Home Security System

Investing in a comprehensive home security system is a wise decision, providing peace of mind during the holiday season and throughout the year. Modern systems often include surveillance cameras, motion detectors, door and window sensors, and even smart home integration. Many can be monitored remotely via smartphone apps, allowing you to keep an eye on your property from anywhere.

Safeguard Your Packages

Online shopping is a convenient way to tackle your Christmas gift list, but it also increases the risk of package theft. Consider having packages delivered to a secure location, such as a parcel locker or your workplace. Alternatively, schedule deliveries for times when you know someone will be home to receive them.

Fire Safety Precautions

Decorative lights, candles, and Christmas trees contribute to the festive atmosphere but can also pose fire hazards. Inspect your holiday decorations for frayed wires, and turn off lights when you leave the house or go to bed. Keep trees well-watered to reduce the risk of them catching fire. Ensure that smoke detectors are in good working order, and have a fire extinguisher readily available. Do you remember when you bought your fire extinguisher? You should upgrade the fire extinguisher sin your home every 10 years – visit your local Expert Hardware where you will find all your fire safety essentials.

Create the Illusion of Presence

If you’re travelling for the holidays, create the illusion that someone is home. Use timers to turn lights on and off at regular intervals, and consider leaving a radio or TV on to simulate activity. Arrange for a neighbour to collect mail and newspapers, preventing them from piling up and signalling your absence.

By incorporating these practical tips into your holiday preparations, you can enjoy a festive and secure Christmas season. Prioritising home safety not only protects your property but also ensures that you and your loved ones can fully embrace the joy of the holidays without unnecessary concerns. Whether you’re decorating your home, hosting gatherings, or travelling, taking these precautions will help create a safe and merry Christmas for all.

Visit your local Expert Hardware for your home security essentials and expert advise!

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