The holiday season is usually a time for fun, festivities and family events, but it’s also when break-ins and burglaries can spike in Australia. With homes more likely to be empty as families go away for the holidays or spend more time shopping, the risk of becoming a target for thieves increases. In fact, statistics show that break-ins are more common around Christmas and New Year, which makes it an ideal time to review your home’s security measures.
Why Are Break-Ins More Common at Christmas?
Holiday Travel and Empty Homes
One of the biggest factors contributing to increased break-ins during the festive season is the number of people who travel for the holidays. As many Australians take time off to visit family or go on a summer holiday, their homes are often left unoccupied for extended periods. An empty house is an easy target for burglars, who can take advantage of the situation without the risk of being interrupted.
Research has found that home burglaries typically peak during the summer months, especially around Christmas and New Year. The festive period is a time when thieves know many homeowners will be away, which increases their chances of success.
Increased Purchases and Valuable Gifts
The holiday season also means that many people are out buying expensive gifts and new electronics. These items, including televisions, laptops, and smartphones, are not only valuable but also easily resold, making them attractive targets for thieves. When these purchases are brought into the home, they can draw attention, especially if the home is not well-secured. Unfortunately, burglars often target homes with visible signs of expensive gifts or a lack of visible security measures.
How Can You Avoid Break-Ins During the Holiday Season?
Secure All Entry Points
The first line of defence against burglars is ensuring that all doors, windows, and gates are secure. Check that all locks are functioning correctly, and reinforce weak points like sliding doors and older windows. If you’re unsure about your home’s security, it’s a good idea to consult a professional, like a locksmith in Endeavour Hills, who can provide expert advice and help install stronger locks, deadbolts, or even smart locks for added security.
Use Timer Lights and Motion Sensors
If you plan to be away during the holidays, consider using timer lights to make it look like someone is home. Motion-sensor lights placed around your property can also be useful, as these lights can startle intruders and draw attention to them if they approach your property at night.
Keep Gifts Out of Sight
While it’s tempting to display your new holiday purchases, avoid leaving expensive gifts in plain sight near windows or doors, as burglars are more likely to target homes where they can easily see valuables through the window. It’s also a good idea to avoid leaving the boxes for new TVs, laptops or gaming consoles out on the nature strip. Make sure you properly break them down and put them in your recycling bin away from sight. A box left outside is basically a signpost letting the world know you have a brand new 4K TV.
Don’t Announce Your Absence on Social Media
It’s tempting to share your holiday plans or post pictures of your festive celebrations, but this can make your home a target. Broadcasting your vacation dates or displaying your absence can tip off thieves that your home will be empty. Wait until after your trip to share your holiday moments on social media to avoid alerting potential burglars.
Inform a Trusted Neighbour or Friend
Let a trusted neighbour or friend know when you’ll be away for the holidays and ask them to keep an eye on your property and collect any mail or packages left at your door. If they notice anything suspicious, they can let you or the authorities know. This simple step can help deter thieves, as they’ll be less likely to target a home that’s being watched.
Invest in a Security System
For added peace of mind, consider installing a home security system. Today’s systems are more affordable and accessible than ever, and many offer smartphone apps that allow you to monitor your home remotely, receive motion alerts, and even control lights or cameras while you’re away. A visible security camera or alarm system can act as a deterrent, making it less likely that burglars will target your home.
While Christmas is a time for celebration and relaxation, it’s also important to stay vigilant about home security. With more people travelling and buying expensive gifts, break-ins are unfortunately more common during the holiday season. However, with the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being targeted. By taking a proactive approach, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season, knowing that your home is well-protected.
