Theft During the Holidays:
Are You Truly Prepared?
As the holiday season approaches, the festive spirit is unfortunately accompanied by an alarming increase in property crimes. Theft and burglary rates are expected to rise by nearly 30 percent during this time of year. From porch pirates snatching packages to home break-ins, ensuring the safety of your home and belongings is more important than ever. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead of potential threats and protect what matters most this holiday season.
Stay Alert While Shopping
Holiday shopping can be a whirlwind of excitement and stress, making it easy for thieves to exploit distracted shoppers. Protect yourself and your purchases by keeping these tips in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
- Keep your belongings close to you, such as wearing crossbody bags or securing wallets in interior pockets.
- Shield your PIN when entering it at the checkout.
- Stow your shopping bags and valuables out of sight when leaving them in your car to avoid tempting prying eyes.
A little vigilance can go a long way in keeping your holiday shopping stress-free and secure.
Don’t Fall Victim to Holiday Scams
Scammers thrive during the holiday season, targeting unsuspecting individuals with fake deals, phishing attempts, and fraudulent charities. To safeguard your personal information:
- Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true.
- Verify the legitimacy of donation requests before giving to a charity.
- Monitor your bank and credit card transactions for any suspicious activity.
- Be wary of unexpected delivery text notifications that ask for sensitive information or payment.
Sharing these tips with friends and family can help everyone stay informed and vigilant this season.
Protect Your Home While Traveling
An empty house is an open invitation to burglars, especially during the holidays. Even festive outdoor decorations can signal to potential intruders that high-value items may be inside. Here are some strategies to keep your home secure while you’re away:
- Install a reliable alarm system to deter intruders and alert you if your home is breached.
- Use smart home devices like video doorbells and security cameras to monitor your property remotely.
- Set interior and exterior lights on timers to create the illusion of someone being home.
- Temporarily pause mail and package deliveries to avoid buildup, which signals your absence.
By implementing these measures, you can reduce the likelihood of theft and focus on enjoying your holiday celebrations.
Stay Prepared This Holiday Season
A proactive approach to security can make all the difference in keeping your home and belongings safe during the holiday season. Remember to stay vigilant, have a plan in place, and take advantage of the tools and resources available to protect what’s most important to you.
Contact Trusted Insurance Partners LLC to discuss how you can insure your belongings and enjoy peace of mind throughout the holidays. Protect your home, valuables, and holiday spirit with a comprehensive insurance policy tailored to your needs.