Prevent Theft Over the Festive Season
With decorating, shopping, parties, planning, and packing, there is a lot to do over the festive season! While jumping into the festivities, itâ's easy to forget necessary safety steps!
Whether youâ're planning on visiting Grandma in her cottage, leaving for the winter trip to the log cabin, or simply spending Christmas weekend away, leaving your home safe will ensure that you donâ't return home to stolen belongings or a vandalized home!
Use these steps to ensure that your home and family are kept safe:
- Keep Your Travel Plans Off Social Media
While you may be tempted to post your Mammoth trip plans on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, be warned that this is a tempting piece of information for thieves. If they know that your home is empty for a week, theyâ'll be more likely to pay it a visit.
- Notify a Neighbor
Ask a neighbor, a trusted friend or relative to visit your home frequently. Ask them to pick up your post and newspapers while you are away. After all, nothing says vacant home like scattered newspapers on the driveway and a mailbox full of post.
- Examine Your Furnace
Heating equipment can cause fires and deaths every year. Before turning on your heating system, hire a professional to inspect your furnace and clean the chimney!
- Hide Christmas Gifts
While putting wrapped presents under a tree is a true sign of Christmas, itâ's also an invitation for a burglar. Keep trees away from windows and presents out of sight!
- Lighten Your Lights
Before you string lights, check for frayed wires or cords and never overload sockets with plugs. Ensure that you turn off your Christmas lights before leaving the house or going to bed. If youâ're leaving on vacation, consider taking down the lights to prevent accidental fires and theft of lights!
Prior to heading out on the road, review your
homeowners insurance to check that you have the coverage that you need. Not only does a quality policy offer the peace of mind while youâ're away from home, but it protects your family, home, and finances from suffering in the aftermath of a peril, such as theft or vandalism. For a policy tailored to you,
contact Cook, Disharoon & Greathouse Insurance in Oakland for all of your California insurance needs!
