Tips on Safeguarding Your Home During the Holidays
The holiday season is approaching bringing joy, happiness and new opportunities for everyone. Unfortunately, the holiday season also brings new opportunities for burglars. The U.S. Department of Justice reports that the holiday season is one of the most lucrative times of year for burglars. The rise in burglaries is attributed to the mass purchases of merchandise and the tendency for many of us to let our guard down during the holiday season, says Don Moore, home security expert.
Mr. Moore suggests that you follow these security measures to reduce your risk of being a burglar’s next holiday victim:
Around the House:
- Always close your drapes when you’re not home, so you’re not exposing your holiday gifts.
- Put lights on timers to make it look as if you’re home, even while you’re at holiday parties or holiday shopping.
- Always lock doors and windows when leaving, even if it’s only for a moment.
Holiday Shopping:
- Try to park near a well-lit, busy entrance to the shopping mall or store.
- Carry only $100 or less when shopping. Many shopping malls have indoor automatic teller machines where you can get money instantly.
- Carry only one credit card while shopping and use it for all purchases.
- When resting, don’t leave your packages on the ground.
- Have your car keys in your hand so you don’t have to linger before entering your car.
- Keys can also serve as a weapon against an attacker.
- Avoid setting your packages down when you are getting into your car.
- Put your purchases in the trunk, not the backseat of your car, so potential burglars can’t see them.
Driving Home:
- If you think you are being followed, drive to a public place or a police station. If it is unsafe to get out of your car, honk your horn and flash your lights.
- If your car breaks down, open the hood and attach a white cloth to the car antenna. If someone stops to help, stay in your locked car (windows up) and ask him or her to call the police or a garage.
“By following these simple security measures, you can help ensure a happy and safe holiday season,” says Don Moore.
