The holiday season, especially around the Christmas period, is one of the best times of the year. The children are on school holidays or university breaks. The company you work for or your business may decide to close for a few weeks. Regardless of your personal circumstances, you deserve to enjoy a stress-free break. To ensure your home stays protected, following key home security tips can provide peace of mind while you’re away enjoying the festivities.
It is a break away from the hustle and bustle of work; a time when you can unwind, put your feet up and relax. In some cases, people may decide on an adrenaline adventure.
Whatever your choice will be, the festive season is about having fun.
In recent news articles, headlines discuss the overall decrease in crime figures in some areas of Melbourne thanks to the wonderful work of our law enforcement agencies.
However, the latest crime figures reveal, residential aggravated robberies have increased.
Wherever you live, unfortunately, the reality is that robberies during the holiday season are generally higher than at any time of the year. This is because thieves have a general understanding that a large number of people will be away from their houses or businesses to enjoy their time off. It is an opportunity to break into premises with little or no resistance. Knowing that, in or around Christmas, there are generally new presents at the houses by loving family and friends.
Before you leave your business and homes to start your well-deserved Christmas and New Year holidays, make sure the valuables you are leaving behind are well protected.
Here are some tips and reminders to protect your home
1) Secure doors and windows with modern solutions.
This is the easiest and most obvious step to take. Unfortunately, in the rush to beat the holiday traffic, this is a task easily missed. Some robbers find easy passage through windows. Consider taking it a step further with smart lock technology. Smart locks provide enhanced security features such as remote access, real-time notifications, and the ability to monitor your home from anywhere via your smartphone. This technology ensures that your home remains protected even when you’re away.
2) Leave a light on at night.
Passing by a house or business and seeing a light on would usually mean someone is inside. This is a simple, yet effective method, and an inexpensive security measure. However, using smart lighting systems that automate when lights turn on and off throughout the evening can create a more realistic appearance of an occupied home. These systems can be set up with varying schedules, making it harder for intruders to predict your patterns.
3) Have a family member or a neighbour you trust check up on the premises once in a while.
Everybody needs good neighbours. A family member or friend who lives close by can check on the house once in a while is also an effective and inexpensive measure.
Joining or engaging with a local neighbourhood watch program can add an extra layer of security. Neighbours looking out for each other can deter criminal activity and provide immediate assistance if any suspicious behaviour is noticed around your property.
4) Have someone collect any mail in your mailbox during your time away.
A mailbox full of letters or junk mail is usually a sign nobody has been home to check on the mail. Keeping your mailbox empty will give the house a “lived-in” look.
Either arrange for a trusted friend or neighbour to collect your deliveries or place a temporary hold on mail and newspaper services. This simple step helps maintain the appearance of a lived-in home.
5) Insurance
May this be a timely reminder to not only adequately insure your businesses, but to also make sure your cars and home are properly insured. A sometimes overlooked aspect of home safety is ensuring your insurance coverage matches the current value of your possessions and any home improvements you’ve made. Regularly review and update your policy to avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of a claim.
The above tips, combined with traditional safety measures, provide a comprehensive approach to protecting your home during the holidays. Implementing modern security technologies, fostering community vigilance, and maintaining a well-planned presence can help ensure your peace of mind throughout the season.
Stay safe, and happy holidays!
Joel Reyes is a partner at Reliance Partners Insurance Brokers. If you have specific questions related to this article, call Joel on 0438 299 289 or email jreyes@reliancepartners.com.au.
