As we move into the holiday season, many families will be visiting relatives, shopping more often, and hosting gatherings. This time of year brings a lot of activity. It also brings a rise in crimes of opportunity, especially when homes or vehicles are left unsecured. A few simple habits can go a long way toward protecting your property and keeping your family safe during the holidays.
One of the most effective safety practices is to make a nightly routine of securing your home and vehicles. Before going to bed, walk through your home and ensure everything is locked, outside lights are on, and valuables are stored indoors. This helps reduce the chance that a criminal sees your property as an easy target.
Below are some straightforward tips you can use at home, in your neighborhood, and while shopping.
Home Safety
Whether you are staying local or traveling, make it look like someone is home and paying attention. Empty homes are appealing to criminals, and small visual cues can make a difference.
Tips:
- Lock all doors and windows, including basement and garage access points.
- Use timers to turn a few interior lights on and off at different times in the evening.
- Keep your exterior lighting steady and consistent. Replace burnt-out bulbs.
- Avoid announcing travel plans or sharing vacation photos on social media until you return home.
- Pause mail and package delivery or ask a neighbor to collect anything that arrives while you are gone.
- Trim back shrubs and landscaping from windows, doors, and pathways so there are fewer places to hide.
- If you will be away for more than a few days, ask someone to check on the property. A driveway that never changes or grass that does not get cut is a clear sign that no one is home.
And if you would like more personalized advice, LCSO offers free home and business security surveys. A trained deputy will walk your property, examine doors, windows, lighting, and sightlines, and share recommendations to help reduce risk. To schedule, email Sheriffs_Crime_Prevention@loudoun.gov.
Vehicle Safety
Vehicle tampering and thefts from vehicles often increase during busy shopping seasons. Most of these incidents involve unlocked vehicles or valuables left in plain view. The easiest way to prevent this is to remove items of value and make sure your vehicle is locked every time you step away.
Tips:
- Lock your vehicle every time, even when parked at home or while running quick errands.
- Do not leave valuables inside your vehicle. This includes bags, wallets, laptops, and firearms.
- Never leave your key fob in the vehicle.
- Park in well-lit areas. Choose spaces near building entrances where there is more activity.
- Close and lock your garage door, even during the day.
- If you have security cameras, make sure the view of your driveway or front parking area is clear.
Small habits make a large impact on preventing theft and keeping your neighborhood safe.
Shopping and Package Safety
With increased shopping and deliveries, take steps to prevent package theft and personal theft while out and about.
Tips:
- Keep purses and shopping bags zipped and close to your body.
- When placing purchases in your vehicle, secure them in the trunk before arriving at your next stop. Do not move items from the back seat to the trunk in a parking lot where someone may be watching.
- Stay aware of your surroundings in parking lots and walk with purpose.
- Track deliveries and bring packages inside as soon as possible.
- If possible, schedule deliveries for times when someone can accept them or use secure delivery lockers.
Staying alert, securing your property, and establishing simple routines can help prevent crime and keep your holiday season focused on the things that matter. If you see something that feels out of place in your neighborhood or at a shopping area, trust your instincts and report it. Safe communities start with the day-to-day choices we make.