How to Secure Your Home During the Holiday Season

The holiday season often means packing your bags and heading out for a well deserved vacation. While you’re creating memories with loved ones, the last thing you want to worry about is the safety of your home. An empty house can be an attractive target for burglars, but with some proactive measures, you can ensure your property remains secure. Here are our expert tips for protecting your home while you’re away.

1. Upgrade and Inspect Your Locks

Your locks are the first line of defense against unwanted entry. Before you leave, it’s a good idea to assess their condition and consider upgrades for enhanced security.

Check Existing Hardware

Walk around your property and inspect every lock on all exterior doors, including the front, back, and garage entry points. Are they old, rusted, or flimsy? A weak lock can be easily bypassed. We recommend high-quality deadbolts for all primary entrances. Unlike a simple spring latch lock found in most doorknobs, a deadbolt extends deeper into the doorframe, making it much more difficult to force open.

Consider High-Security Locks

If you want to take your security to the next level, consider installing high-security locks. These are designed to resist picking, drilling, and bumping - a common technique used by burglars to defeat standard pin-tumbler locks. A professional locksmith can help you choose and install the right high-security options for your home, providing a significant boost to your peace of mind.

2. Embrace Smart Security Technology

Smart home technology offers convenient and powerful ways to monitor and protect your property from anywhere in the world.

Smart Locks

Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock your doors remotely using your smartphone. You can also grant temporary access to a trusted neighbor or house-sitter without handing out a physical key. Some models even send you alerts whenever your door is opened, so you always know who is coming and going.

Security Cameras and Video Doorbells

Visible security cameras are a powerful deterrent. Modern systems can stream live footage directly to your phone and send motion-activated alerts. A video doorbell lets you see and speak to anyone who approaches your front door, whether you're upstairs or across the country. This creates the impression that someone is always home.

3. Secure All Doors and Windows

Burglars often look for the path of least resistance. An unlocked window or a poorly secured sliding door can be an open invitation.

Don't Forget the Windows

Before you leave, make sure every window is closed and securely latched. For ground-floor windows or those in less visible areas, consider adding secondary locks or security film. This film makes the glass shatter-resistant, preventing a quick break-in.

Reinforce Sliding Glass Doors

Sliding glass doors are a common weak point. The factory latches are often not enough. You can easily reinforce them by placing a heavy-duty dowel or security bar in the track. This physically blocks the door from being pried open. For added protection, a locksmith can install specialized locks that secure the door to the frame.

4. Create the Illusion of Occupancy

An empty home is a target. The key is to make it look like someone is there, even when you're miles away.

Use Timers for Lights and Electronics

Invest in a few inexpensive timers for your lamps, radios, and televisions. Set them to turn on and off at various times in the evening to mimic your normal routine. Having lights on in different rooms will make it appear as though the house is occupied.

Manage Your Mail and Deliveries

A pile of newspapers on the doorstep or an overflowing mailbox is a clear sign that no one is home. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail, packages, and any flyers left at your door. Alternatively, you can place a temporary hold on your mail delivery through the postal service.

Be Mindful of Social Media

It’s exciting to share your vacation plans, but broadcasting your absence on social media can alert the wrong people. Wait until you return to post photos and updates about your trip. It’s better to share your memories safely once you’re back home.

Your Holiday Security Partner

Preparing your home for a holiday trip doesn't have to be stressful. By taking these simple yet effective steps, you can relax and enjoy your time away, knowing your property is protected. From upgrading to high-security deadbolts to advising on the latest smart technology, a professional locksmith is your best resource for total home security.

Ready to secure your home for the holidays and beyond? Contact us today for a professional security consultation. We can help you identify vulnerabilities and recommend the best solutions to keep your home safe and sound.

Call us today for FREE estimate at (602)601-2120.