As the holiday season accelerates, your domicile demands more than just decoration; it requires protection, too. Reflecting on a set of safety tips published by the Upper Arlington government today, we offer a condensed guide to keeping your abode secure during this bustling time.
If you're planning to depart for a holiday retreat, it's wise to signal to the local Police Division by submitting a Notice of Temporary Vacancy form. Often overlooked, little moves allow officers to check your space in your absence periodically. Concealing signs of absence, like stowing away empty trash bins and employing automatic timers to simulate occupancy, can deter opportunistic onlookers. And, neighbors are your first line of defense - solicit their vigilance, perhaps to move a car occasionally to suggest activity or to clear snow, signaling occupancy. During the festive season, traveling, don't forget to have someone collect your mail or press pause on deliveries – a doorstep brimming with parcels is a welcome sign for the wrong kind of visitor.
The convenience of online holiday shopping comes with the looming threat of package theft. As such, "track deliveries online so that you know when to expect them" and arrange for receipt in person if possible, advises Upper Arlington's safety reminder. If personal acceptance isn't an option, redirect your goods to a neighbor or workplace. Tech can also be a considerable barrier to theft, so considering doorbell cameras or other home video solutions is worthwhile. If you do spring for these gadgets, flaunt it - let the signage be known that your home isn't an easy target. Partnerships with the local police through registered camera systems can provide an added layer of security.
Home safety essentials remain unchanged even during the holidays: keep it well-lit and locked. When bringing in the new bounty of tech and treasures, be discreet in disposing of packaging—unboxed riches out in the open are tantalizing for thieves. Moreover, gifts should not be displayed close to windows where passersby can quickly scope them out.
Guard not only your possessions but also your goodwill in this season, which is renowned for its spirit of giving. When solicitors call your door for charitable contributions, "ask to see proof of a Solicitation Permit from the City," Upper Arlington's reminder states. Should they fail to present this, report them to the authorities. As we gather to share joy and gifts, let us not forget that the safety of our homes is foundational to that joy. A few precautions can ensure that preventable misfortune does not dampen the holiday cheer.
