Here’s the thing: burglars aren’t exactly known for their holiday cheer. While you’re busy decking the halls and checking your list twice, opportunistic porch pirates are checking out which homes look like easy targets. Empty driveways during travel season? Check. Boxes stacked by the front door or garage? Double check. No visible security measures? Jackpot.
The good news? You don’t have to fall victim to the Grinches of the world. A few smart practices combined with the right technology can make your home about as appealing to burglars as fruitcake is to, well, everyone.
Lock It Down (The Smart Way)
Did you know, nearly 30% of burglaries happen through unlocked doors and windows? That’s why it’s important to lock everything: your doors, windows, garage, and that side gate you always forget about. If Santa can get in through the chimney, he doesn’t need an unlocked door.
Want to eliminate the “did I lock the door” panic? Install smart locks! Check the status of your locks directly from your phone, provide house sitters or family member temporary codes that expire after a certain time, and receive alerts when doors open. Halfway to the airport wondering about the back door? Check your phone, confirm it’s locked, and relax.
Keep Your Comings and Goings Private
That “Gone to Grandma’s for two weeks!” social media post? You’re handing burglars an open invitation to stop by while you’re gone. Save the photos for when you’re back home. While you’re away, have a trusted neighbor grab your mail and packages, because an overflowing mailbox screams “nobody’s home” louder than any social media post ever could.
Want to make sure packages are hidden while you’re gone? Smart video doorbells let you answer the door from anywhere with crystal-clear HD video, night vision, and two-way audio. Get alerts when deliveries arrive and chat with drivers in real time, making it look like you’re home even when you’re states away. Became a victim of porch pirates? Video evidence makes reporting theft to law enforcement much easier.
Hide What Matters Most
Gifts visible through your front window? You’re essentially running a showroom for thieves. Close your curtains at night – especially when those presents start piling up – and whatever you do, don’t leave empty electronics boxes by the curb. You’re creating an open invitation that a new 85-inch TV or gaming console was unboxed.
Smart security cameras are your 24/7 security team. Advanced AI detection distinguishes between people, vehicles, and animals, eliminating those annoying false alerts from neighborhood cats or the wind. What happens if someone steals the camera? No worries! Many of the subscriptions include cloud storage where the footage saves, even if the camera is damaged.
Illuminate and Dominate
A well-lit home is a burglar’s nightmare, just think of Home Alone and how Kevin created the illusion someone was home when they weren’t. Motion-activated lights are especially effective, because nothing says “keep moving, pal” like suddenly being thrust into the spotlight. But unlike Kevin’s elaborate traps, you can take a much simpler (and legal) approach with smart lighting systems. Set schedules mimicking your routine, add randomization so it doesn’t look robotic, and control everything from your phone. Our partners like Control4 and Lutron integrate seamlessly with your other devices.
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your current security system or starting from scratch, our design team is here to help. We’ll design a solution that fits your needs, your budget, and your lifestyle, ensuring your home stays secure while you focus on what really matters: enjoying time with the people you love. Contact our team at 702-648-7474 or schedule a consultation.
