The holidays are almost upon us, and that’s a good time to reevaluate your home security needs. Crime isn’t likely to be at the top of the list of things the holidays remind you of, but it does happen. The holidays are a time when most of us are out of the home. Since theft occurs primarily when we are absent, and perpetrated by people we know, it’s a good idea to secure your home before you go meeting family out of town. You shouldn’t put expensive alarm systems ahead of your plans for Christmas gifts, but here are some tips you can use to secure your house during this busy time of year.
Relax on Decorating
Decorations are expensive, but they are also a sign that the owner of those decorations may be sitting on extra cash. Elaborate yard displays shouldn’t give off that vibe, but they certainly can. This year, try halving the amount of decorations you have in your yard. Also, leave any gifts you may have tucked away until the last possible moment.
Lock Your Home
The front and rear doors of the home are the two first places a criminal is likely to check. Garage door and window access are also on the list, and they are easy to overlook when you’re in a hurry to leave the house. Home invasions related to unlocked doors or windows are entirely avoidable if you take the extra few minutes to walk the home and test your points of entry.
Reinforce Doors and Light the Home
Strike plates and metal doors can help to reinforce your home if you feel you might need to. A strike plate prevents someone from dislodging your door latch from the jamb with brute force, like kicking or striking it. Metal doors will bend, but they won’t shatter and splinter as easily as wooden ones.
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