Holiday Season crime is an unfortunate reality for many who become victims of opportunistic thieves so, while you're busy putting all the finishing touches to your holiday preparations, ensuring your home is properly protected should be a priority.
Wise Group suggests the following tips to help avoid being targeted by burglars this festive season:
1. Keep travel plans offline
If you’re planning to travel during the holiday season, be sure to keep your travel plans off your social media networks. Never post where you’re going, when you’re leaving, or when you’ll be back.
2. Notify a neighbour
If you decide to go out of town during the holidays, be sure to notify a trusted neighbour. Ask them to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity.
3. Monitor your alarm system
Make sure your alarm system is monitored by Wise Group. Not only will this ensure the best chance of preventing break-ins, it will also secure you a discount on your home and contents insurance.
4. Update your details
If you’re planning a holiday and have a monitored alarm or access control system, call to advise us of your plans, and make changes to emergency contacts if required. We can even pre-program holiday dates into your access control system for the entire year ahead.
5. Don’t leave signs you are away
Remember to cancel your newspaper and other mail services if you are away from home for a long period of time. Ask a neighbour or a friend to check on your property, collect your mail and bring your garbage bins in.
6. Never hide a key
Never hide a key outside your home. Instead, give it to a trusted neighbour or friend as thieves know to look for keys under pot plants and other hiding spots.
7. Hide packages and gifts
Putting pretty wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree looks nice, but it’s also an open invitation for a burglar. Try to keepy our Christmas tree, with gifts underneath, away from windows or other places with a view. Dispose of any large boxes and items discretely and over time if needed. Do not leave large empty boxes ina visible area at the front of your home.
8. Install sensor lights
Installing automatic sensor lights at the front of your house is not only a great way to deter burglars, it will also welcome guests to your front door.
