Don’t invite burglars to your holiday
Don’t invite burglars to your holiday
“It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas everywhere you go….” And that’s what you see this time of year—street lampposts, store windows, and homes everywhere, decorated inside and out. The talk of the town centers on Christmas celebration plans with online selfies and video clips to illustrate. However, not everyone carries the Christmas Spirit in their heart. Thieves see plenty of opportunities to lighten the load of busy distracted shoppers. You do not need to become one more statistic on the local crime blotter, however. Using common sense and following a few safety tips will make this one more happy holiday for you and your family.
Dr. Janet Lauritsen, University of Missouri professor of criminal justice, explains to Vice.com that the two types of crimes that increase during December are robbery and personal larceny. These tend to be crimes of opportunity which means that individuals and homeowners are able to undermine their goals by using common sense and safety measures to protect themselves and their homes.
A basic tenet of safety for you as an individual and as a homeowner is to be aware of your surroundings. When shopping, park your car in a well-lit area if possible. Walk with purpose with personal devices and money safely tucked away. In other words, do not let these things distract you. They may make you the perfect target of a con-artist or thief. Have keys in hand, know where you are going, and keep purchases under control. Elizabeth Hall, an emergency services specialist, recommends other good tips here.
Now, apply this principle to your home. Know your neighbors if not your neighborhood. Know who you are able to trust to watch your house when you are gone, pick up your mail and packages, care for your animals and plants. Reciprocate. Participate in a Neighborhood Watch Program. Helping one another creates a more secure environment for everyone. Next, inspect your yard, your buildings, and your walkways. Keep bushes and trees trimmed, especially near your doors and windows, and keep your yard tidy, especially free from ladders. This limits hiding places and easy access to your home.
Look at your entryways. Secure all doors, sliding doors and windows leading to your home and garage doors that provide access as well. Check your locks and security system. Indoor and outdoor lights on timers or motion detectors give the illusion of occupancy and threaten exposure of would be invaders. This is especially helpful if you will be away from home for any length of time. Also be mindful of trash and recyclables left on the curb that might indicate what new valuable goodies you have in your house. Secure your home from the inside as well as the outside, keep valuables in safe places, keep a list and description in a safe place, and do not advertise online or other public means of leaving town for extended periods of time. Technology, smart devices, and common sense can go a long way to protect you and your things. Happy holidays!
CREDIT: cdn.images.express.co.uk