Stockings Hung by the Chimney with Care … and Security

The most wonderful time of year – for home security

stockings

The holiday season is a time to celebrate and get together with family and friends. However, burglaries and break-ins peak at this time of year. While you are at holiday parties and Christmas musicals the time is spent away from your home leaves your house and belongings more vulnerable than ever. These security solutions can help protect your home from all the Scrooge’s out there.

1. Let your trustworthy neighbor know you are going to be away and ask them to help you with your trash collection and removing any packages left at your door.

2. Automatic light timers with battery backup (in case of power failure) can create the simulation of someone being at home. Setting at various times throughout the house can create the illusion of movement and activity in different areas of your home.

3. If you are gone for a long period of time, stop delivery of newspapers and mail.

4. If you have a garage, keep your vehicle parked in it. If not and you keep your vehicle in the driveway, make sure there are no spare keys or garage door openers left inside.

5. Check with your local police station to see if they have a “vacant house list.” Criminals are less likely to enter a home if they know it’s being watched.

Protecting Your Holiday Packages from Porch Pirates

With most holiday shopping being done online the amount of deliveries and packages left at your door is at a season high! It’s been reported that this time of year thieves will even trail delivery trucks! Even after you claim your packages, it is smart to break down and immediately trash any boxes that reveal high-priced purchases.

A few other considerations for protecting your holiday packages this holiday season include:

1. Thieves commonly strike during work hours when many homes are empty. Consider having packages delivered to your office, not your house.

2. Check with delivery providers to see if they offer additional security features. UPS has a program which allows a customer to receive an email or text message before a package arrives and reroute it if no one is going to be home.

3. Take advantage of tracking and delivery alerts so you know exactly when the package is delivered.

Whether you are traveling or staying home this holiday season, the threat of thievery remains. Knowing these helpful tips may help prevent your season from being soured!

If you’re thinking of selling and have questions on the market or if you’re wondering what steps you should take to prep your home for sale, contact Wilson Realty Group at (704)251-9741! Our expert Listing Specialists are here for you!