How to Protect Your Home During the Holiday Season and When to Consider a Home Lock Change

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and creating unforgettable memories. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when crime rates tend to spike, especially home burglaries. Many people travel, leaving their homes empty, or their homes are filled with valuable gifts and new electronics that attract thieves. Protecting your home is essential, but how can you ensure your security remains top-notch during this busy time? Here are some tips on how to keep your home safe and secure, and when it might be time to consider a home lock change for added protection.

It’s tempting to share your holiday travel plans on social media, but this can alert burglars that your home will be empty for an extended period. Avoid posting about your travel until after you’ve returned, and refrain from updating your status or photos in real-time while away. Thieves often monitor social media for clues on who’s home and who isn’t, so discretion is key.

If you don’t already have a home security system, now is the time to invest in one. Modern systems come with features like motion sensors, video surveillance, door/window sensors, and smart home integration that allow you to monitor your property from anywhere. Having a visible security system can act as a deterrent for burglars, making them think twice before targeting your home.

It’s common to decorate your home with beautifully wrapped gifts, but leaving them in front of windows or by doors can attract thieves. Keep gifts out of sight, especially if your home is visible from the street. If you receive packages during the holiday season, try to arrange for them to be delivered when you’re home, or have them placed in a secure location.

Good neighbors are invaluable, especially when you’re away during the holidays. If you’re traveling, let your trusted neighbors know, so they can help keep an eye on your property. They can pick up mail or packages, park in your driveway, and alert you to any suspicious activity.

Darkness provides cover for burglars, so installing motion sensor lights around your yard and entrance points can significantly improve security. These lights will automatically turn on when someone approaches your home, startling any potential intruders and alerting neighbors to unusual activity.

Before leaving for a trip or even when you’re home for the holidays, always ensure all windows and doors are securely closed and locked. This includes sliding glass doors, which are especially vulnerable to break-ins. Reinforce the locks and consider adding a security bar or slide bolt for added protection.

Package theft, often referred to as “porch piracy,” increases during the holiday season as more people shop online. Consider having your packages delivered to a secure location, like a neighbor’s house or a parcel locker. You can also request that deliveries be scheduled when you’ll be home.

While the tips above can help secure your home during the holiday season, there are times when a home lock change might be necessary. Here are some key signs that indicate it's time to upgrade or replace the locks on your home:

If you’ve lost your keys or they’ve been stolen, it’s crucial to replace the locks as soon as possible. You never know who might find or misuse the lost keys. Having the locks rekeyed or replaced will ensure no unauthorized person can access your home.

If you’ve experienced a break-in or noticed signs of attempted break-ins, it’s time to upgrade your locks. Even if the break-in was unsuccessful, the locks may have been compromised, leaving your home vulnerable to future threats. Installing high-security locks or smart locks can enhance your home’s security.

Locks wear out over time, especially if they’re frequently used or exposed to the elements. If your locks are old, rusty, or difficult to operate, it may be time for a change. A professional locksmith can help assess whether your locks need replacing to ensure they’re working at their best.

Whenever you move into a new home, it’s always a good idea to change the locks, even if the previous owners seem trustworthy. You don’t know how many copies of the keys may have been made or who may have had access to them. Replacing the locks will give you peace of mind and ensure that only you and your family have access to the property.

If you want to take your home security to the next level, upgrading to smart locks or high-security locks is an excellent option. Smart locks allow you to lock and unlock your door remotely using a smartphone, while high-security locks are designed to resist picking and bumping. Both options offer enhanced protection for your home, especially if you frequently travel during the holidays.

Whether you need a lock change or expert advice on how to secure your home during the holiday season, Volusia Locksmith is here to help. Our professional locksmiths offer a range of services, including rekeying, lock replacement, and the installation of advanced security systems. Don’t wait until it’s too late—ensure your home is safe and secure this holiday season by contacting Volusia Locksmith today at (386) 333-8483

Stay safe, enjoy your holidays, and rest easy knowing your home is protected.