The Christmas holiday season is a time of joy, family gatherings, and travel. However, it also requires proper attention to ensure the safety and security of our homes. With increased lighting and additional decorations, unattended items can easily pose a fire hazard, while the possibility of theft during your absence demands equal attention.
To keep your homes safe and sound during the holidays, it’s important to be extra careful. Here’s a quick checklist to help you make your house secure and get ready for a stress-free Christmas!
Electrical safety
With more lights on, there’s a bigger chance of something going wrong with the electrical system.
• If you’re using fire detectors, give them a quick test. If any of your detectors have not been checked out in a while, it’s time to replace the batteries.
• Check your electrical cords and lights. Electrical problems are a leading cause of fires, so it is important to inspect them. Look for frayed wires in extension cords. If you find any damage, replace them. Make sure that all your outdoor lights are rated for exterior use. These lights are typically waterproof and can withstand the sun’s heat.
• Do not overload circuits or outlets. To avoid overloading, try to limit the number of multi-plug adapters you use. Buy extension cords that come with an overload protection/built-in breaker that automatically trips when it senses a potential electrical overload.
• Never run extension cords under rugs or carpets. Constant foot traffic can wear down the cord insulation, potentially posing a fire hazard.
• Unplug unnecessary gadgets. Unless absolutely necessary, unplug your appliances, such as televisions, electric stoves, and other electronic devices, if you plan to be out for an extended period.
Property security
A dimly lit, quiet house might seem like a safe haven, but it can also give the wrong impression. To keep it looking like someone’s home, try to make it inviting. Also, remember that people traveling and shiny gifts can make our homes more attractive to burglars.
• Lock all doors and windows. Before you leave, double-check that all the doors and windows are locked. Draw curtains and blinds when you’re not home. Don’t forget to lock all the sliding doors, which are often overlooked.
• Keep the outside looking busy. If you’re traveling, set up smart lights or light timers to turn on/off at different times in different rooms. For example, you could set the living room light to turn on from 6 to 10 PM and the bedroom to turn on from 8 to 9:30 PM to show that someone’s home.
• Install motion-sensor lighting. Motion-activated lights at entry points can scare off potential intruders. Position them in strategic locations.
• Be careful with what you share online. Don’t give away where you’re going. Don’t post your travel dates, flight details, or pictures in real time on social media.
• Dispose of boxes properly. After Christmas, it is easy to throw away all the wrapping paper, especially that big, branded box. But that can give away what is inside your home. Break them down and put them in the trash box.
Have a secure, safe, and happy holiday season.
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Henry L. Yap is an Architect, Fellow of both Environmental Planning and Real Estate Management, and one of the Undersecretaries of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development.
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