For many, the holidays are a time to travel and be with their families. Many do not realize it is also a time for home burglaries. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns Holiday travelers to take precautions when planning to leave home for the holidays.
Items that thieves typically steal are things that can be easily sold: tools, bicycles, cameras, and expensive items such as furs and jewelry.
The BBB offers the following advice to Holiday Travelers:
1. Don’t make your home a target: Many people keep their friends and family updated about their travels via facebook, twitter and other social media. While it seems harmless to let your friends and family know what you are up to during the holidays, it lets those who may commit a burglary have access to this information. Many burglaries are actually committed by people that know someone you know. Also, don’t post pictures of your trip until you are home.
2. Make your home less attractive for burglars: Increase outdoor lighting and put your lights on a timer so the home will not appear empty while you’re away. Trim the trees and shrubs around the exterior before leaving.
3. Secure the exterior openings of your home: Upgrade your locks to grade one locks, which have a stronger bolt. Add locks to your windows and sliding glass doors if they don’t already have them or extra safety.
4. Be aware of your surroundings when shopping and traveling: Secure all your possessions, not just those in your home. If visiting a city that is new to you, ask the hotel where you should and shouldn’t walk before venturing out. Keep your wallet and money in your front pockets. If using a purse, hold it close to your body at all times. If you’re nervous about leaving valuables at home, get a safe box at your local bank.
For more business information you can trust, visit http://www.bbb.org/
It will also be helpful to ask your trusted neighbors to check on your house often while you are away. Having a dog will also be a good anti-burglar measure.
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