Christmas is peak season for burglaries — dark evenings, empty homes over the holidays, and a front room full of wrapped-up temptation. A little preparation keeps the festive season merry rather than miserable. Here's where to focus.
Don't advertise an empty house
Hold off posting "off to the in-laws for a week!" until you're home — location check-ins tell more people than you'd like that the house is empty. Turn off location tagging over the holidays.
Lights and eyes
- Timer lights inside make the house look lived-in through the evening.
- Motion-activated security lights outside startle anyone approaching — very effective in neighbourly streets.
- An affordable Wi-Fi camera gives you alerts on your phone and footage for the police if the worst happens.
Lock down the basics
Check every door and window lock works before you head off, and get anything worn replaced. Repair a uPVC door that won't lock cleanly now, not in January. Padlock side gates so they need a key from inside, and lock away ladders and tools a burglar could use to reach a window.
Protect the presents
Don't stack expensive gifts in full view of the window, and keep jewellery, watches and cash in a home safe rather than the bedroom drawer. Ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye out and move the odd parcel or curtain while you're away.
Want your locks checked before the break? We cover Southampton and the Solent 24/7 — get in touch and we'll make sure you're festive-ready.