I don’t need to tell you what time of year it is! It’s the holiday season and for many people that means trips to see family or fabulous vacations to take advantage of those days off. No matter where you’re going, you shouldn’t leave your amazing Camden apartment vulnerable. Crime rates spike worldwide every winter, but with these tips, you’ll outsmart any trouble makers and have a fantastic holiday.  

1. Make it clear that your home is protected (even if it’s not)

Did you know that dogs are the biggest deterrent for burglars? Whether it’s the bark or the bite, burglars do not want to interact with a dog. If you have a dog, you’re ahead of the game! But even if you don’t have a dog, a beware of dog sign, a pet inside sign (helpful in the case of fires as well), and any other indicators that you have a dog could scare off a potential threat. If you want to go the extra mile, get a fake dog bark sensor from Amazon to really sell your story. This exact same logic can be applied with a sign or decal from a security company to indicate you have a security system, whether you do or not.

Vicious Pup ready to protect your home (Photo by Camden Phipps)

2. Don’t broadcast your travels

As tempting as it is, you shouldn’t broadcast your vacation all over social media. The modern mischief maker knows that social media is an unbelievably easy way to know who’s home and who’s three states away at grandma’s house. Don’t make it easier for these criminals to know that your home is unoccupied!

Photo courtesy of Lisa Fotios from Pexels

3. …But let the right people know you won’t be home

On the flip side of that coin, if you want to let a few select people know that you won’t be home so they can keep an eye on your place that’s a great idea! A trustworthy neighbor or even your office leasing staff could make sure your apartment is secure when they walk by during their normal day to day activities. This person could also make sure to grab any flyers or packages at your door, so they don’t sit there for multiple days advertising that you aren’t home.

Photo courtesy of Camden Vantage

4. Use your electronics

Kevin McCallister had the right idea when he turned on that movie in “Home Alone.” A television being on implies that someone is home to watch that television. If you’re wary of leaving your tv on for an extended period (hello, electric bill!) then check out FakeTV. A device that sits near your window and mimics television light changing to make it seem like someone is home.

Photo courtesy of John-Mark Smith from Pexels

​5. Hide Your Valuables

Have you ever stared into a bakery window just drooling over a beautiful pastry? That’s how burglars feel when they can see all your valuable items from the window. The easiest approach here is to keep your blinds and curtains closed so no one can peek inside. If you, understandably, don’t want to always have your blinds closed, make sure that the expensive items in your home aren’t in clear view from those windows. TV’s, computers, expensive art pieces, etc. should not be in clear view of the window. Don’t tempt them with your cool stuff and great taste! That’s your stuff!

Utilize these tips for a worry-free holiday vacation!