The holidays are a busy time for travel, and unfortunately they are also a busy time for burglars. The good news is that most home break-ins are crimes of opportunity, which means a few simple habits can make your home a much harder target. Here is a practical checklist to go through before you leave.
Make the house look lived in
An empty house is easy to spot: a dark home at night, a full mailbox, a pile of packages by the door. Put a few lamps on timers so lights turn on and off at normal hours. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to pick up your mail and packages, or ask the post office to hold your mail while you are away. If it snows, ask someone to shovel the walk so there are footprints on the property.
Be careful what you share online
Avoid posting your travel plans, flight photos or hotel check-ins while you are still away. Wait until you are back home to share your vacation pictures. This applies to group chats and public posts alike, since you cannot control who sees them later.
Check every door and window
Before you leave, walk through the house and confirm that every exterior door and window is closed and locked, including the garage, the basement and the second floor. Make sure the garage door is fully closed, and consider unplugging the opener or using its vacation lock if it has one. Do not leave a spare key hidden outside, under a mat or in a flower pot. Burglars know those spots. Give the spare to someone you trust instead.
Use light, cameras and alarms wisely
Good outdoor lighting, especially motion-activated lights near doors, discourages people who do not want to be seen. If you have a doorbell camera or security cameras, check that they are working and that the batteries are charged. If you have an alarm system, arm it before you go and make sure your contact information is up to date. Visible signs or stickers can add an extra layer of deterrence.
Protect your valuables and documents
Keep important papers, spare cash, jewelry and small valuables in a locked place, such as a safe or a locked drawer, rather than in obvious spots like the nightstand. Take photos of your valuables and keep a list of serial numbers in a safe place, which helps with insurance if anything is ever lost.
Tell someone you trust
Let one reliable neighbor, friend or relative know your travel dates and how to reach you. Ask them to check on the house, notice anything unusual and call you or the police if something looks wrong. Give them only the access they need, and ask them not to mention your absence to others.
A quick checklist before you leave
Lights on timers, mail and packages handled, doors and windows locked, garage closed, cameras and alarm ready, valuables secured, and one trusted person informed. Ten minutes of preparation can protect your home for the whole trip, and let you enjoy the holidays with peace of mind.
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