The Christmas vulnerability nobody mentions

You're posting holiday photos in real-time, announcing two weeks away with family, and sharing snapshots of expensive gifts under the tree. Meanwhile, burglars are noting exactly when your home is empty, how long it will stay that way, and what valuables are inside. Christmas burglaries rise not because criminals work harder, but because homeowners unintentionally broadcast their absence while filling their properties with new items and overlooking key security measures.

Here’s what separates secure properties from vulnerable ones during Christmas: understanding that festive security requires different thinking, and most risks are entirely preventable with simple precautions.

Stay silent on social media until you're home

Post holiday photos after you return-not while you're away. Real-time updates tell everyone your property is unoccupied. Geotags reveal exactly where you are, and how far from home. Even private accounts aren’t fully secure; friends-of-friends visibility and public posts make it easy for information to spread.

Save your photos, enjoy your break without broadcasting it, and share memories safely once you’re back.

Make your property look occupied

Set timers on lights-but vary them. Identical timing every night looks automated. Use multiple rooms so your home appears lived-in, not staged.

Ask trusted neighbours to collect post, move bins, or occasionally park in your drive. Piled-up letters or parcels left on steps are clear vacancy signals. Pause or redirect routine deliveries before leaving.

Secure valuables properly

Keep gifts and expensive items out of sight from windows. Christmas trees surrounded by presents make tempting displays for anyone passing by.

Double-check that all windows, doors, and side gates lock properly-especially those accessible from flat roofs or extensions. Store garden tools and ladders where they can’t be used to gain entry. And always set your alarm, even if you're away only briefly.

Check your insurance before you go

Many policies limit cover if homes are unoccupied for more than 14–30 days. Some require extra precautions, which most people aren’t aware of. Check your terms, ensure your security measures comply, and document valuable items with photos and receipts for easier claims if needed.

Your Christmas security strategy

• Post holiday updates only after returning home.
• Use varied timers for lights in multiple rooms.
• Ask neighbours to collect post and keep your home looking lived-in.
• Keep valuables and gifts out of sight from windows.
• Secure all doors, windows, gates, and tools before leaving.
• Confirm insurance conditions for extended absences.

Homes targeted over Christmas aren’t unlucky-they’re the ones broadcasting absence, leaving visible vacancy signs, and assuming festive goodwill extends to burglars.

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