No one wants to worry about crimes happening during the holidays. Yet, it is a real threat that can be intensified during the holidays. Here are some safety tips to remember this holiday season.
Be careful whom you share your holiday traveling plans with. Although it may be tempting to share your upcoming visit with your son’s family in Alaska when your cashier asks you about your holiday plans at the checkout counter, its best to leave traveling plans out of it. You never know who will overhear you and use it against you.
Don’t place spare keys in well-known places. If you have placed it under the welcome rug or a hide-a-rock on the front step then you should re-think your hiding place. If you can easily find it then so would a perfect stranger.
Be careful with your answering machine message. You shouldn’t leave a message explaining that you are away for the holiday. Instead, leave the traveling plans out of it and simply leave a festive greeting wishing the caller a happy holiday.
Alert your alarm company of your holiday plans. Let them know how long you will be gone and your expected day of return. Give them emergency contact information and a way to get a hold of you in case of an emergency.
Don’t put an ad out for a house sitter. If you can’t find a family member or friend to house sit for you, find a professional house-sitting service. Putting an ad in the classifieds will make your home a target for potential thieves.
When you do find a house sitter, keep them up to speed. Give them photographs of any people that may be coming to your home so they can easily recognize those who belong and those who don’t. If you have any changes for your plans alert them as soon as possible so they have as much information as they can.
Don’t forget the normal details that are helpful to keep your home look lived in. Set your Christmas lights on a timer so they continue to go off during the night. Ask a neighbor or friend to pickup your papers and mail, and arrange for someone to mow your lawn.
