Homeowners and Renters–Tips for Holiday Security

The FBI reports that nearly 400,000 burglaries occur between November and December each year in the United States, but some burglars can be deterred; here are some tips:

• Do not hide spare keys under flowerpots or doormats.
• Use a timer to turn household lights on and off even if you’re not home. Burglars watch for occupancy cues especially unlit homes.
• Do not display your Christmas tree and presents in front of easy-access windows.
• Keep your windows and doors, including sliding doors, secured and locked.
• Make sure you’re home to accept any packages that are scheduled for delivery. If not, request that the packages are left with a trusted neighbor, the post office, or shipped to your work address.
• Request to suspend your mail if you are going out of town or on vacation.
• Do not leave notes on your door announcing that you’re away from home.
• Do not leave empty boxes from high-priced items outside your home for trash collection. Burglars would love nothing more to swipe your brand new flat screen TV, your children’s newest game system, and your computer.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to check up on your home if you’re out of town.
• Arm your security system if you have one installed and monitored. Studies show that homeowners with security systems only arm them 50% of the time.