Who’s ready for winter?
I’m not. I’m not a fan of the bone-chilling cold, dry skin or chapped lips. And don’t get me started on the traffic uproar that snow causes here in Northern Virginia. All in all, winter makes me want to hibernate until spring returns.
Unfortunately, burglars don’t share my mentality. They don’t take the winter off, mainly because the season presents many opportunities: lots of people traveling, expensive presents, and telltale signs that a house is uninhabited.
This winter, don’t let burglars ruin your holiday spirit. Take the steps to make sure your home is protected at all times with these safety tips.
Home Safety Tips for Winter
Secure Doors and Windows
It’s easy to forget, but you should always remember to lock your doors and windows, whether you’ll be gone for just an hour or an entire week. If you plan on traveling, don’t forget to lock your deadbolt.
Hide the Snow Shovel
Shoveling is backbreaking work and once you’re done, you just want to toss the shovel aside in exhaustion. It’s all in your power to do so, but don’t forget to bring it back inside. Burglars can use a shovel to pry open a door or shatter a window.
Turn the Lights On
Daytime during the winter is very short, and many will find that they get home well after the sun’s gone down. Lights act as a burglar deterrent, so you’ll want to find ways to turn on your lights, such as by using automated lights or [Frontpoint’s Light Controls].
Don’t Over Share
There is a real danger to oversharing on social media. Burglars now monitor social platforms to see when a homeowner will be traveling, allowing them to see exactly when a home will be empty. Limit your (and your kids’) status updates and photo uploads until you return home.
Make It Appear Like You’re Home (Even When You’re Not)
Burglars are on the lookout for homes that appear to have been uninhabited for an extended period of time. They look for telltale signs like a driveway still covered from last week’s snowfall, a pile of newspapers and a stuffed mailbox. Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to collect your mail, shovel or walk around in the snow to create footprints, or better yet, to housesit while you’re gone.
Keep Gifts Hidden
During the holidays, it’s important to keep any gifts – wrapped or unwrapped – out of view. A large box let’s a burglar know there’s something worth stealing and you don’t want to give them any reason to target your home.
Careful with the Trash
Speaking of gifts, be careful with what you do with the boxes after you open them. As you throw them out, make sure to break them down so the boxes aren’t as visible. Place them in trash bins or cover them as best as possible.
Happy Holidays
As much as I don’t like the snow, I like burglars even less. Use these tips and don’t let burglars ruin your winter holidays and cheer. Happy Holidays!
