Holiday Security Tips For Your Home And Business
The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and often, added security risks. With homes left empty during travel, businesses handling increased foot traffic, and cyber scams on the rise, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Whether you’re protecting your home, business, or assets, these holiday security tips will help you stay protected this season.
Holiday Security Tips For Traveling Homeowners
If you’re leaving town for the holidays:
- Hold Your Mail: An overflowing mailbox is a clear indicator that no one is home. Contact USPS to hold mail deliveries.
- Timers for Lights: Use smart home systems or timers to turn lights on and off, creating the illusion someone is home.
- Be Discreet on Social Media: Avoid sharing travel plans, gift purchases, or home details online. Criminals often target those oversharing on social media.
Protecting Your Business During The Holidays
The busy season also comes with risks for businesses. Utilize these security tips to ensure a smooth holiday season:
- Upgrade Alarm Systems: Ensure alarms are functional and have backup power.
- Restrict Access to Assets: High-value items should be locked in safes or restricted areas when closed.
- Monitor with Surveillance: Security cameras covering entrances and parking lots act as deterrents. Remote access ensures you can monitor activity while offsite.
Prevent Holiday Scams And Cyber Attacks
Holiday shopping and year-end transactions lead to an increase in cyber threats. Protect yourself and your employees by:
- Verifying Website Links: Confirm legitimacy before clicking on email links or sharing credit card information.
- Training Staff: Teach employees to recognize phishing emails and avoid sharing sensitive company data.
- Strengthening Passwords: Update passwords and enable two-factor authentication wherever possible.
Keep Holiday Deliveries Secure
With more package deliveries during the season, porch pirates are on the rise. Follow these holiday security tips to protect your shipments:
- Install a Doorbell Camera: Smart doorbells let you monitor deliveries and deter theft.
- Schedule Deliveries When Home: Coordinate shipments for times when someone is available to receive them.
- Use Lockboxes or Secure Pickup Locations: Lockboxes or package lockers provide an extra layer of protection.
Plan A Year-End Security Audit
The holidays are the perfect time to evaluate your overall security:
- Schedule a Security Audit: Have professionals assess vulnerabilities in your home or business security systems.
- Update Old Systems: Upgrade outdated locks, alarms, and cameras to modern, efficient solutions.
- Prepare for the New Year: Use these holiday security tips as a foundation for a stronger security strategy in 2025.
Why Choose O’Brien & Associates For Your Security Needs?
At O’Brien & Associates, we specialize in helping homes and businesses stay safe year-round. Our experts provide tailored security solutions, including audits, surveillance systems, and risk management.
Start the new year with peace of mind. Contact us today to learn more about these holiday security tips and schedule your professional security consultation.