Discover Crucial Tips for Safeguarding Your Home During the Holidays

Masked figure peering through glass door at night.

Holiday theft is a growing concern, but effective home security strategies can help you safeguard your residence and packages.

At a Glance

19% of Americans experienced package theft in the past year.
Avoid package theft by using alternate delivery addresses and pickup points.
Proactive home security measures include smart locks and video monitoring.
Collaborate with local authorities and community watch programs to stay guarded.

Rising Holiday Theft: Understand the Threat

During the holiday season, amid gift-buying and festivities, theft rates regrettably rise. Surveys show nearly 19% of Americans have fallen victim to package theft in the past year. The increase in break-ins during holidays often stems from shoppers being distracted, homes being vacant, and the attraction of newly purchased valuables being visible. Thieves often use techniques like package theft from porches, known as “porch piracy,” and break-ins when homes are unoccupied.

Prevent package theft by leveraging delivery services that offer tracking, requiring delivery signatures, or using smart technology such as video doorbells. Many also reroute packages to alternative locations such as workplace addresses or local pickup points. For homeowners, securing the perimeter with smart security systems—including smart locks and cameras—is highly advised.

Home Safety: Proven Strategies

Implementing thorough security measures can mitigate risks at home. Basic precautions like not hiding spare keys outside, using secondary locks, and keeping valuables out of sight are advisable. In the event of travel, have a neighbor keep an eye on your property or arrange for a house-sitter, and use timers to manage lights and radios, making the home appear occupied. These simple strategies can help prevent burglaries.

Some homeowners are turning to advanced methods like artificial intelligence to further enhance home security. These can include AI-equipped surveillance cameras that alert when they detect suspicious movement. Additionally, joining forces with local neighborhood watch groups or utilizing community apps can provide early warnings of suspicious activities, fostering a supportive community network.

Holiday Safety Tips from the Yonkers Police – Help Stop Porch Pirates, Burglars, & Car Thieves!

The Yonkers Police Department wants you to have a Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday Season without having to deal with porch pirates and home & car thieves! #YonkersPD @CityofYonkers pic.twitter.com/mZ7Z1FHS4q

— Yonkers Police HQ (@YonkersPD) December 17, 2018

Secure Your Packages: Proactive Measures

To evade porch theft, networking with neighbors can help keep unwelcome visitors at bay. Installing smart locks and security cameras provides a robust deterrent to opportunistic thieves. For added peace of mind, many opt for secure lockboxes or P.O. boxes for their holiday deliveries. Ensuring packages require a signature upon receipt is another effective measure to thwart theft.

Post-holiday safety is equally crucial. Avoid advertising new, expensive items by disposing of packaging discreetly, as such displays can attract unwanted attention. If a package is stolen, promptly report to relevant authorities, including USPS, UPS, FedEx, or Amazon, to investigate and seek possible recompense.

After the holidays, it is important to remain vigilant and cautious about how expensive visible gifts are stored. Thieves are particularly drawn to high-value, easily resold items, and practicing transparency in security can inhibit their attempts.