The holiday season is just a few short weeks away. It starts with the excitement of Thanksgiving gatherings, followed by Hanukkah celebrations, Christmas festivities, Kwanzaa observances, and ringing in the New Year. While this time of year is filled with joy and anticipation, it’s also when many of us leave our homes unattended for extended periods.
Planning your holiday travels can be exhilarating, and studies suggest that the anticipation of a trip can boost your happiness even before you depart. From researching festive activities to shopping for gifts and outfits, the lead-up to your holiday can be just as lovely as the vacation itself.
Ensuring your home’s security while you’re away is key to maintaining blissful peace of mind throughout your trip. APS Security and Fire details how to ensure your home stays safe this holiday season.
What Burglars Look For
Burglars often seek homes offering low risk, easy entry, and valuable opportunities. If they can peek through a window and spot high-value items like electronics or wrapped gifts under the tree, they’ll look for the simplest way to get inside.
An unlocked door or accessible window can make your home an easy target. Locked doors may not be enough if items like porch decorations or garden tools are easily accessible, as they can be used to break in.
Tips to Secure Your Home Before Holiday Travel:
Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Store expensive items and wrapped presents away from windows where they can’t be seen from outside.
Lock Up and Close Blinds: Always lock all doors and windows, and consider closing curtains or blinds to prevent prying eyes.
Be Cautious with Spare Keys: Avoid hiding spare keys under doormats, in planters, or other obvious spots.
Maintain Your Home’s Appearance: Arrange for leaf collection to make it seem like you’re still home.
Handle Mail and Deliveries: Pause mail and package deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them for you.
Inform Your Security Provider: Arm your security system and notify your Central Monitoring Station of your travel plans so they can provide pertinent information to authorities if needed.
What to Consider for a Security System
Security and home automation are crucial for homeowners who want to stay connected to their property during the holidays. Resideo’s ProSeries Security and Smart Home Platform offers comprehensive solutions to keep your home safe.
Ask Yourself Five Questions When Selecting a Security System
Does the System Offer Easy Camera Access and Alerts?
Not all security apps and cameras provide the same level of convenience and functionality. Resideo’s Total Connect App lets you easily monitor your home through connected cameras. Position cameras to check on your driveway, front porch, and any areas where holiday decorations are displayed. This way, you can monitor package deliveries and ensure your home remains secure.
Can the Security System Help Save Energy?
Home automation and energy management are increasingly important, especially during the cold months. A system that allows you to control lighting can make your home appear occupied and help reduce energy consumption. Connected thermostats, like the Honeywell Home smart thermostat with Resideo Energy Care, learn your home’s heating patterns and adjust settings to optimize comfort and efficiency while you’re away.
Do You Prefer an Awareness System or One That Takes Action?
In emergencies, every second counts. Professionally monitored systems ensure that trained dispatchers handle alarms promptly, verify incidents, and contact authorities when necessary. The new ProSeries Indoor MotionViewer allows you to receive video clips when motion is detected, helping prevent false alarms and providing peace of mind during your travels.
Is the Security System Compatible with Existing Smart Devices?
The ProSeries Platform integrates seamlessly with other Z-Wave compatible devices, such as smart locks, lights, and garage doors. This compatibility allows you to expand your smart home ecosystem, providing additional security and convenience.
What Value Do You Place on Professional Monitoring?
DIY security systems might seem sufficient, but they can leave gaps in protection. Professional monitoring is especially valuable when you’re out of town. For example, suppose an alarm is triggered while you’re on a flight to your holiday destination. In that case, professional monitoring ensures that appropriate actions are taken immediately without you needing to be available to respond.
Enjoy Peace of Mind This Holiday Season
By taking proactive steps and investing in a comprehensive security system, you can focus on making memories with loved ones without worrying about the safety of your home. Safe travels, and happy holidays!
At APS Security and Fire, we are dedicated to providing tailored security solutions for homes and businesses throughout Central Florida. Let us help you safeguard what matters most this holiday season. Contact us today to learn how we can customize a security system to fit your specific needs.
