Guarding Your Home Against Festive Season Thieves

Masked figure peering through glass door at night.

The festive season often brings the unwelcome risk of holiday theft; prepared homeowners can take action to protect their property and gifts from disturbances.

At a Glance

Nearly 19% of Americans experienced package theft last year.
Consider alternate delivery strategies for package security.
Enhance home security with smart technology and neighbor collaboration.
Report stolen packages to authorities promptly.

The Growing Threat of Holiday Theft

With nearly 19% of Americans falling victim to package theft in the last year, safeguarding deliveries has become crucial during the holiday season. The spike in thefts is partly due to increased shopping activity and the temporary visibility of valuable items left on doorsteps. Homeowners must adopt effective strategies to secure their properties and parcels.

Many people are changing their delivery methods to combat package theft. Sending deliveries to workplaces or secure collection points has become common practice. Utilizing tracking services, along with smart doorbell cameras and package lockboxes, can significantly enhance delivery security. Networking with neighbors can also be an effective measure.

Enhancing Home Security

The holiday season sees not only package theft but also a general rise in home break-ins. Effective home security measures include using timers for lights and radios to give the illusion of occupancy. Participation in neighborhood watch programs can also deter would-be trespassers.

General home safety advice emphasizes the importance of secondary locks, not hiding spare keys outside, and keeping valuables out of sight. Ensuring interior lights are on timers and having neighbors keep an eye on your property when away can further reduce the risk of burglary.

Proactive Measures and Reporting

If a theft does occur, homeowners should first verify the delivery status and collect relevant details about the event. Promptly reporting the incident to authorities, and the respective service like USPS, UPS, FedEx, or Amazon, is essential.

Proper disposal of packaging can prevent the advertising of new, valuable household items. This step, combined with enhanced surveillance measures, ensures a safer home environment post-holiday season.

Final Thoughts

The festive period’s joy should not be overshadowed by the risk of theft. By implementing strategic delivery solutions and boosting home security, homeowners can protect their property and maintain peace of mind. Staying vigilant and proactive is key to ensuring a stress-free holiday experience.

Adding security systems such as cameras and smart lights not only adds protection but might also provide discounts on homeowner’s insurance, aligning safety with economic benefits.