8 Great Holiday Home Security Tips!

Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, home break-ins tend to rise—and every year, someone in the neighborhood returns from a joyful gathering only to discover their home was burglarized. While you can’t always stop a determined intruder, you can take practical steps to deter theft and keep your home safe.

Here are 8 great holiday home security tips to protect your home and give you peace of mind this season:

1. Lock Those Doors and Windows. It may sound basic, but during the hustle of the holidays, it’s easy to forget. Get in the habit of locking all doors and windows before leaving the house and before going to bed. If you have a security system—use it.

Avoid running extension cords through doors or windows for holiday lights. It weakens the seal and advertises an easy access point to anyone watching.

2. Be Social—Later. As tempting as it is to post your travel plans, new gifts, or fun events on social media—wait until after you’re home. Broadcasting your absence makes your home a bigger target.

If you must post, be vague about your location or mention that someone’s staying at your house (even if it’s your “Cousin Ted, the off-duty cop”).

3. Don’t Showcase Your Gifts. Decorating with lights and trees in the window is a lovely tradition—but leave the gift pile out of plain view. Keeping presents tucked away helps reduce the temptation for opportunistic thieves.

4. Think Before You Recycle. A brand-new game console, smart TV, or laptop box by the curb tells burglars exactly what’s inside. Break down and conceal packaging before putting it out for recycling.

5. Lock the Garage. Even a slightly open garage door is an invitation. Always keep it shut, and lock the door between the garage and the house. Remind kids not to leave it open when playing outside. Garages often hold expensive items—and easy access to the rest of your home.

6. Light It Up. Whether you use timers, smart plugs, or app-controlled lighting, keep your home well-lit—inside and out. Motion-sensor lights around entryways and driveways are particularly effective. A home that appears occupied is far less likely to be targeted.

7. Rely on Good Neighbors. If you’re traveling, ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye out. They can collect mail, park in your driveway, or even shovel the walk—small things that make your home look lived in. A strong community connection is one of the best forms of security.

8. Notify Local Police. Many police departments offer vacation checks or additional patrols if you notify them in advance. It’s a simple step that adds an extra layer of protection while you’re away.

Stay Safe and Enjoy the Season

By following these holiday home security tips, you can help reduce your risk of burglary and focus on what really matters: celebrating with the people you love.

The Columbus Team wishes you and your family a joyful, secure, and stress-free holiday season.

Photo by Sweta Meininger