The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and making cherished memories with loved ones. But amidst the twinkling lights and festive cheer, it’s easy to overlook the importance of protecting your home from burglary during this busy time of year. Unfortunately, the Christmas period can also be a prime time for opportunistic thieves, with many homes filled with gifts and often left unattended for seasonal outings or holidays. To help you enjoy a worry-free festive season, we’ve compiled 10 essential home burglary prevention tips to help you keep your home secure and your Christmas spirit intact.

10 Tips to Protect Your Home from Theft this Christmas

1. Secure Entry Points – Deck the Doors Safely

While decorating your home for the holidays, don’t forget about security. Ensure all doors and windows have sturdy locks and that they’re properly closed when not in use. Wreaths and other door decorations can sometimes obstruct visibility of locks or alarms, so make sure they’re still accessible and functional. Adding festive lighting near entry points can also help deter unwanted visitors.

2. Protect Holiday Deliveries – Keep Santa’s Packages Safe

Online shopping and holiday deliveries skyrocket during December, making homes a target for porch pirates. Arrange for packages to be delivered when you’re home or use a secure delivery box. If you’re out, ask a neighbour to collect them. Discard gift boxes discreetly by breaking them down to avoid advertising what Santa brought to your home.

3. Make Your Home Look Occupied – A Festive Glow

Create a warm, lived-in holiday atmosphere even when you’re away. Use timers for lights* on your Christmas tree and other decorations to give the impression that someone is home. Leave a car parked in the driveway or ask a neighbour to collect your post to avoid any tell-tale signs of an empty house.

4. Enhance Home Security – Festive but Secure

While it’s tempting to focus on decorations, don’t neglect security. Install or activate a home alarm system, and ensure it’s visible. Place security cameras near outdoor holiday displays to monitor any unusual activity. If you’re leaving for a holiday getaway, double-check that all doors and windows are locked and that your alarm system is armed.

5. Protect Your Christmas Tree – Keep It Sparkly, Not Targeted

Position your Christmas tree away from windows to keep it and the gifts underneath out of sight. If your tree is in a visible spot, consider using frosted window films or closing curtains in the evening. This keeps burglars from peeking in to see wrapped presents waiting to be stolen.

6. Secure Outdoor Decorations – Lock Down the Cheer

Outdoor decorations, especially inflatable Santas and glowing reindeer, can be a magnet for thieves. Use security cables or stakes to anchor them securely, and ensure expensive items are placed in well-lit areas. For added protection, tie them into your security system by placing cameras nearby.

7. Be Cautious of Strangers – Not Every Visitor is Santa

The holidays bring more door-to-door visitors, from carollers to charity collectors. Verify the identity of anyone at your door before letting them in, and avoid opening your door to unexpected strangers after dark. If you’re feeling generous, donate to known charities through secure online platforms rather than giving cash at the door.

8. Keep Holiday Travel Plans Private – Don’t Share with the Grinch

If you’re heading away for Christmas, resist the urge to post your travel plans or holiday snaps on social media. Burglars often look for clues that a house is empty. Instead, share your festive memories after you’ve returned home. Let a trusted neighbour know you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your property.

9. Be Mindful During Festive Gatherings – A Merry but Safe Christmas

With more people visiting your home during the holidays, security can sometimes take a backseat. Make sure you know who’s coming and going, and lock doors after guests arrive. Store valuables out of sight to avoid accidental damage or theft during the party chaos. If you’re hosting an outdoor gathering, ensure decorations and lighting are safely secured.

10. Prepare for Emergencies – Stay Merry and Ready

Even with the best preparations, emergencies can still happen. Keep contact details for local locksmiths, emergency services, and your insurance provider handy. Review your home insurance policy to ensure it covers theft and accidental damage during the holidays. Knowing you’re prepared can provide peace of mind while you enjoy the festive season.

As you prepare to celebrate this Christmas, taking a few extra steps to secure your home can ensure the season remains merry and bright. By staying vigilant and embracing these simple precautions, you can focus on what truly makes the season special—spending time with family and friends.

Safeguard Your Home With a Home Insurance Policy

House break-ins and theft still happen, irrespective of preparedness and precautions taken. You can ensure further peace of mind by taking out a home insurance policy to protect your house, its contents or even both. Talk to GetSetGo today to discuss the best options for you. If you have insurance cover for your home already in place, its recommended to check what your current home insurance policy covers.

Here’s to a safe and joyful holiday season for you and your loved ones!

*If using lights on timers or leaving them unattended, always ensure they are certified for safe use and comply with safety standards. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper operation and avoid placing lights near flammable materials such as curtains, paper decorations, or dried foliage, which could pose a fire hazard. Regularly inspect your lights for signs of wear or damage, and never overload electrical outlets.