As the holiday season ramps up with its festivities and travel plans, the Santa Monica Police Department has released a set of tips to help revelers ensure their homes remain safe while they're out celebrating. With December being one of the peak times for travel, many homes will be left unattended, creating an attractive prospect for potential burglars.
The department took to Facebook to share their advice, telling residents to "ensure all doors and windows are fully locked" and to make use of light timers or smart bulbs to give the impression that someone is still home. These simple steps could make a significant difference. They also encouraged folks to take measures to avoid any outward signs that the residence is unoccupied, such as having the post office hold your mail or asking a neighbor to collect it and to "avoid to publicly announce" travel plans on social media platforms.
Energy saving is another consideration for the security-conscious. Unplugging non-essential electronics not only cuts down on electric bills, it also minimizes the risk of fires. The SMPD didn't stop there—they also advised notifying a trustworthy neighbor, securing valuables away or taking them along, and making sure any installed sensor lights and security systems are in working order before heading out for holiday engagements.
Additionally, smart homeowners should manage their thermostat settings to prevent any pipes from freezing in their absence. "Adjust your thermostat to save energy but prevent pipes from freezing," the Santa Monica PD reminded individuals on Facebook. With these proactive steps, the department hopes to reduce the incidents of break-ins during this period typically marked by an upsurge in home invasions.
