Be Safe During the Holidays: Essential Tips

We all love the holidays for the fun, cheer, and giving, but it's also an opportunity for the bad guys. Here are a few holiday safety tips from the Houston Police Department that will help you get through the season without the holiday drama (at least from a safety perspective!).

At Home

Lock doors and close windows when you leave your house, even if it's only for a minute.
While leaving home for an extended period of time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house, pick up your mail and newspapers, or you can put a hold on mail and newspaper delivery.
If you are expecting a package and not going to be home, track your packages online and ask your neighbor to pick it up for you.
Thieves usually don't approach homes that appear to be occupied. Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer so it appears someone is at home.
Large displays of gifts should not be visible from the windows and doors of your home.
Do not put out boxes from either large or small purchases on or before garbage day. Doing this allows others to see what new things you have in your home.
Don't leave keys hidden inside fake concealment rocks. Burglars often know how to spot the most common hiding places quickly.

Decorations

Pick the right holiday lights: check for broken or burnt out bulbs. Choose LED lights over incandescent lights.
Be smart about your decorations. Do not leave decorations near the fireplace. Placement of decorations and wires should be carefully thought out.