Images of holiday travelers rushing through congested airports or taking long road trips to visit families are staples of classic movies, but there is some truth to their cinematic depiction. AAA projects 122.4 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this holiday season. While that is great news for reconnecting with loved ones, it also means millions of homes will be left unoccupied, creating opportunities for burglars.
Understanding the importance of home security for holiday travel can help you reduce risk and enjoy your trip with confidence.
While crime typically spikes over the simmering summer months, many states observe a sizable increase in property crimes, including burglaries, in December. Unoccupied homes combined with newly purchased holiday gifts make this time of year especially attractive to criminals. Fortunately, a few proactive steps can significantly improve home security for holiday travel and help keep your home protected.
Home Security Tips for Holiday Travel
- Do not let mail pile up.
Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail while you are away. A full mailbox is a clear sign that a home is unoccupied. - Keep the exterior maintained.
Arrange for snow removal or ask someone to shovel your driveway and walkways. A well-maintained exterior helps your home appear occupied.
- Avoid sharing travel plans on social media.
Posting holiday photos or travel updates in real time can alert burglars that your home is empty. Save posts and photos until you return. - Consider a house sitter.
A house sitter provides a physical presence, collects mail, and helps maintain your property, which can be a strong deterrent to break-ins.
Smart Home Security with EPS Total Connect
Even with a house sitter, your home isn’t truly protected from break-ins without a functioning, professionally monitored security system. When armed, a security system protects your home, valuables, and anyone inside. It also alerts you and local authorities if an intrusion occurs, even when you are miles away.
EPS Total Connect enhances home security for holiday travel by allowing you to manage your system from a single app. You can view interior and exterior cameras, lock and unlock doors, and arm or disarm your system remotely.
This holiday season, invest in home security for holiday travel and enjoy peace of mind wherever your plans take you. With professional monitoring and more than 70 years of local experience, EPS helps protect what matters most.