The holidays are usually a time of happiness and joy. However, they can also be prime pickings for scrooge-style thieves intent on bringing chaos and unhappiness to your life.
Thankfully, there are numerous things you can do to help keep yourself from being victimized. Here are four ways to protect your home from a holiday break-in.
#1: Don’t Post Your Plans on Social Media
Social media brings new challenges — and new opportunities for crooks. If you’re planning on going anywhere for an extended period over the holidays, don’t openly post your plans on social media. There’s a rising number of cases where thieves see that someone isn’t going to be home and then take advantage of the situation. In some cases, these can even be friends and family members you thought you could trust.
#2: Always Lock Doors and Windows
The holidays are a time of year when thefts rise out of sheer necessity. Lazy burglars decide taking what you’ve worked hard for is easier than trying to earn cash to pay for gifts — leaving you the victim. That’s why it is important to always lock doors and windows of your home, even when you’re at the residence.
#3: Be Selective When Throwing Away Boxes And Packaging
Getting a new television set or computer for Christmas can be exciting. However, it is important to make sure you wait to throw away any boxes or packaging accordingly. Thieves spend ample time driving around neighborhoods on the first trash day after the holiday looking for evidence that these items are inside the home. A better option is to drop larger boxes at local post-holiday recycling events or find a large dumpster away from where you live.
#4: Have Adequate Home Insurance Coverage
As a final tip, it is important to have adequate home insurance coverage. There are certain provisions in the policy that help replace items stolen from your home and any damage associated with the break-in — including broken doors and windows.
Not a homeowner? Consider renters insurance coverage, which essentially does the same thing when protecting your personal property items against damage or theft.
Are you ready to learn more about how homeowners insurance can help protect you in the event of a break-in or robbery? Please contact our team of insurance professionals today to schedule a no-obligation policy review appointment.