Christmas is a time of celebration, with homes brimming with festive spirit, gifts, and valuable items. However, this season can also attract unwanted attention from burglars, as high-value presents and gadgets are often left in plain view.
In the midst of the festivities, it’s easy to overlook security measures. Simple actions, like placing your Christmas tree near a window with gifts clearly visible or leaving valuables such as car keys, jewellery, or electronics in plain sight, can make your home a target. Even decorative displays visible from outside can catch the eye of potential intruders.
This holiday season, take proactive steps to ensure your home remains safe. Close curtains after dark, avoid leaving valuables within sight, and consider enhancements like timer-operated lights or a home security system. These measures can help ensure you enjoy a peaceful and secure Christmas.
The Metropolitan Police warn, “Burglars target homes that they think will contain valuables,” and further explain, “Anything of value that they might spot through a window will only spur them on.”
To keep your home safe this Christmas, here are five actionable tips:
1. Fit CCTV Cameras
CCTV systems are both a deterrent to burglars and a way to gather evidence if an incident occurs. Cameras should be installed high enough to prevent tampering and angled correctly to capture clear images. Key features to look for include motion detection, night vision, and high resolution.
The Yorkshire Police remind homeowners, “Remember to accurately time-stamp your CCTV with the correct date and time, just in case it is needed for evidential purposes.”
You can ensure you are following the latest guidance on the use of domestic CCTV on the GOV.UK website.
Best Usage Tips:
- Position cameras near entry points such as doors and ground-floor windows.
- Test your cameras regularly to ensure they are operational and correctly set.
- Follow privacy laws to avoid infringing on neighbouring properties.
2. Introduce Smart Lighting
When homes are left empty during the holidays, burglars are more likely to strike. Smart lighting can mimic occupancy by turning lights on and off at scheduled times, deterring intruders.
Thames Valley Police state, “Lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark.”
Best Usage Tips:
- Install motion-sensitive lights outside to illuminate dark corners.
- Set indoor lights to switch on in key living spaces during evening hours.
- Avoid predictable timing patterns to increase the realism of activity.
3. Utilise Smart Audio Systems
Smart audio systems can create the illusion of activity inside the house, deterring burglars. Playing music, conversations, or other sounds can make it appear as though someone is home.
Lincolnshire Police advise, “Burglars are aware of the times when someone is expected to be away from their house such as during the school run or holidays.” Audio systems can replicate activity, reducing the likelihood of a break-in.
Best Usage Tips:
- Use scheduled playback to simulate household activity.
- Combine audio systems with smart lighting for added realism.
- Experiment with different types of sounds, such as TV noise or a barking dog.
4. Consider Video Doorbells
Video doorbells allow homeowners to monitor their property and communicate with visitors remotely. Motion alerts and video recording functions add an additional layer of security.
As POLICE.UK recommend, “Use your door viewer to see who’s there” and “Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anyone at your door – genuine callers won’t mind.”
Best Usage Tips:
- Mount doorbells at an appropriate height for optimal visibility.
- Adjust settings to minimise false alarms caused by passing vehicles or animals.
- Connect the device with other smart systems for enhanced security.
5. Use Automated Smart Blinds
Smart blinds can help safeguard your home by preventing outsiders from viewing your interiors, while also simulating occupancy.
Harry Doling from Umbra Shading advises, “Blinds can be set to activate at a set time of day, or even set dynamically for sunset and sunrise which will be different each day.”
Best Usage Tips:
- Pair blinds with lighting systems for a cohesive effect.
- Opt for blackout blinds to maximise privacy.
- Automate settings to vary activity throughout the day.