How to keep your house secure at Christmas

Christmas is the so-called season of goodwill. But not everyone shares the same sentiment.

As we approach the most indulgent time of year, homes become filled with expensive gifts and festive treats – and unfortunately, the number of burglaries in the UK begins to rise.

In London alone, break-ins increase by around 25% over the Christmas period, with rates typically peaking in the 2 weeks on either side of December 25^th. Which means, it’s more important than ever to consider home security and ensure your property is as safe as possible. 

Don’t let thieves ruin what should be a joyful time and follow our simple tips.

6 ways to protect your home this Christmas

That go beyond just locking up.

1. Invest in a home security safe

We may not use cash much anymore, but it’s still a popular gift for those hard-to-buy loved ones.

Most families will have more money in the house over the festive period. And until you have a chance to take it to the bank, it’s important to store it somewhere safe and secure.

Unfortunately, under the bed just won’t cut it.

For most households, it can be worth investing in a high-quality home safe.

We have a variety of options available here at eSafes – including different styles and sizes, with cash ratings up to the value of £5000. And starting from just £40 for a small yet sturdy electronic safe, there’s no need to spend a lot of money just to keep your money out of the wrong hands.

2. Upgrade your home security

CCTV cameras are one of the most effective ways to deter burglars. In fact, it’s believed that 60% of domestic burglaries wouldn’t happen if cameras were present – and they don’t even have to be real!

Of course, working CCTV would be hugely beneficial if you were unlucky enough to be burgled – providing useful evidence to give to the police. But if your budget is limited, research has shown that even a dummy camera can be enough to put off would-be thieves and unwanted visitors.

Home security lights can also be a great addition. If any movement is detected near your property, the lights automatically come on – illuminating any trespassers and acting as a fantastic deterrent.  

3. Check your home insurance

Home insurance will usually provide cover for a break-in, but you may need to meet certain conditions to be eligible to claim. For example, the house alarm may need to be activated if the property was burgled when unoccupied or you may need certain security cameras in place.

Be sure to double-check the exact T&Cs of your policy.

In some cases, it may also be worth asking your insurance provider to increase your contents insurance over the festive period. And after Christmas, remember to assess the value of any presents you’ve received – particularly tech and jewellery – and ensure these are covered.

4. Be deceptive

Going out for the evening?

A house left in darkness is an easy target for burglars – so try to make it look as though someone’s at home, even when you’re not. Put a couple of lights on timers. Leave the radio on. If you’ll be gone for a particularly long time, it may even be worth putting up the ironing board with a pile of clothes. That way, it seems like you’ve just popped out.

For anyone with an Echo Dot, setting up Alexa Guard can also be an excellent option.

When you’re on your way out, just say ‘I’m leaving’. Alexa will then listen for signs of human activity or an intruder (e.g. glass breaking), send notifications to your phone and even bark like a guard dog in the right situations – helping to keep your home secure whilst you’re away.

5. Never overshare

As tempting as it might be to post your festive plans on social media, it’s never a good idea. This only advertises the fact that your home is empty – and you can never be 100% sure who you can trust.

Did you know, around 1 in 4 burglaries are perpetrated by someone the victim knows well? It’s best to air on the side of caution and only upload details of your whereabouts and photos once you’re back at home. Or if someone tags you whilst you’re out, remember to decline or remove the tag.

6. Protect your presents

Opportunistic thieves are especially prevalent over Christmas.

To improve your home security, never leave temptation in plain sight. From the minute you buy them, be careful who sees the presents and treats that you’ve bought and are bringing into the house. Hide them away. And once they’re wrapped, don’t place them under the tree –  as they may be in direct view of passers-by. Simply put them back in their hiding place until the 25^th.

Try not to leave branded boxes next to the bin, as this advertises what’s inside your house.

And it’s always worth keeping hold of the receipts. If the worst happened, and you needed to make a claim for stolen gifts, these receipts will be proof of ownership for the insurance company.

Take the first step to better home security today

If you’d like to deprive burglars of the opportunity to steal from your home and protect your belongings, be sure to browse our full online range of home safes.

As a leading online supplier, we stock the most trusted security brands – including Yale, Chubbsafes and Securikey – for a competitive price. And we have a model to suit all needs.

We’re also a hub of useful knowledge.

For further home security tips, or advice on the best home safe to deter burglars and keep your home secure in the lead-up to Christmas, our home safe buyers guide is a great place to start. Plus, you’re welcome to contact us at any time.  Either give us a call on 0800 783 2328 or send an email to info@esafes.co.uk and we’ll respond as soon as possible.