With the holiday season in full swing, safety and security experts are urging homeowners to stay vigilant as they deck their halls with festive decorations and prepare for family gatherings. While recent Philippine National Police (PNP) data shows a promising 13% drop in index crimes from January to November compared to last year, authorities warn that the festive period traditionally sees an uptick in residential break-ins with unoccupied homes being prime targets, as well as fire incidents from faulty wiring and open flames. Preparing your home with simple but effective measures can ensure your holidays remain memorable for all the right reasons.
Travel-proof your home
For families planning holiday getaways, experts emphasize the importance of making homes appear occupied. This includes installing light timers and asking trusted neighbors or relatives to periodically check on your property. They also caution against oversharing travel plans on social media platforms, as these posts can inadvertently alert potential burglars to empty homes. Modern and reliable security systems with cameras and alarms that allow remote monitoring via smartphones have become increasingly popular among homeowners, offering real-time surveillance, protection, and peace of mind while they’re away.
Keeping an eye on valuables
With homes storing more valuable items during the gift-giving season, it’s highly recommended to keep presents and expensive items away from windows and easily accessible areas; and secure them in lockable storage or safes when not in use. For those hosting holiday gatherings, designating a secure area for guests’ belongings can prevent theft, misplacement, or mix-ups.
Fire safety first
The Bureau of Fire Protection reports a 34.4% rise in fire incidents during the first half of 2024 compared to the same last year. Unattended open flames from candles, gas lamps, and cigarettes remain the primary causes of residential fires, which highlights the need for increased fire safety measures. Regular safety checks of holiday decorations—from checking fairy lights for frayed wires or damaged bulbs to ensuring Christmas trees are unplugged when not in use—and avoiding overloading electrical outlets are important safeguards to prevent fire hazards.
Secure entry points
High-quality locks on doors and windows serve as the first line of defense against break-ins. Security professionals recommend installing motion-detection lights around entry points to deter intruders and using additional locking mechanisms for sliding doors to prevent them from being forced open.
Be mindful of deliveries
The holiday surge in online shopping has made package theft a growing concern. It’s always advisable to schedule deliveries when someone is home to receive them or take advantage of secure pick-up points. Many courier services now offer real-time tracking and notifications to help manage delivery times effectively.
Create a community watch
Neighborhood watch programs have proven effective in enhancing community safety and security during the holiday season. These collaborative efforts allow residents to monitor suspicious activities and help each other keep an eye on their properties.
Taking proactive steps to secure your home this holiday season is an investment in peace of mind. With proper planning and staying vigilant, homeowners can fully embrace the festive spirit without worry. This season of joy shouldn’t be compromised by security concerns–it’s about finding the right balance between celebration and safety. Plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year with confidence.
