Burglars and the Holidays

Burglar Proof Your Home for the Holidays

Unfortunately, the holidays are a season of opportunity, and burglars will go to great lengths to get what they're after - cash, credit cards and the gifts people have piled up under the tree. Prevent yourself from becoming a victim by taking steps to make your house undesirable for the burglars out "shopping" for a victim.

• Make sure doors and windows are secure.
• Keep window shades drawn. If your Christmas tree and the gifts piled under it are easily visible from the street, burglars will be tempted to smash the window and grab the wrapped packages.
• If you're going to be out of town for any length of time, make sure your house still looks lived in. Put lights on a timer when you are away and ask a neighbor to keep the front of your home clean of papers and debris. It would also be a good idea to stop the mail.
• After Christmas day, don't pile up empty gift boxes on the street for the garbage man. Burglars appreciate knowing that you have expensive gifts inside for them to steal.
• Get a home security system, and be sure to advertise that you have one. Most security companies will give you complimentary stickers and yard signs.
• Be sure your homeowners insurance policy is up to date.

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection in the event of a loss due to a natural disaster or an extraordinary event like a break-in. A standard policy insures the home itself and the things you keep in it.  Most homeowners have policies because they are required by the mortgage company, but just because they are required does not mean that all policies cost the same amount. You need to shop around to find the best deal.

While out shopping

• When you are out shopping do not let the packages build up
• Do not leave your packages unattended
• Place purchases in the trunk of the car
• Do not pile them up in the back seat for all to see while you are doing more shopping
• If required make a trip home to unload packages before going to another store
• If possible do your shopping with a friend. This will not only help with your personal safety but will also give both of you that additional helping hand.
• Keep the cash you carry with you to a minimum
• Pay attention to how your credit card is used. Watch for the card being swiped more than twice or on different machines.
• Keep a sharp eye on who is around when you are walking through the parking lot
• Be cautious of strangers offering to help you with your packages
• Most malls and stores have employees or security guards that will give you assistance if you need it

The overall best rule while out shopping is to be extra aware of what is going on around you. Do not get lost in the usual confusion of crowded stores.

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