Home Security Tips for the Holidays

Home Security Tips for the Holidays
The festive season is a time for joy, travel, family gatherings—and unfortunately, increased burglary risk. Each year, crime statistics show a noticeable spike in break-ins during the holiday period, particularly in larger cities like London, where homes are often left unattended for days or even weeks.

At Locksmith CO, we understand how important it is to keep your property safe while you focus on enjoying the season. Whether you’re heading out of town, hosting guests, or simply want extra peace of mind, here are our top home security tips for the holidays, based on years of experience working in homes across London.

Home Security Tips for the Holidays

1. Upgrade Your Door Locks to British Standards

Your front and back doors are the primary targets for burglars. If your locks are outdated or non-compliant, you may be leaving your home vulnerable—and potentially invalidating your insurance policy.

What to do:

• Ensure all main door locks meet BS3621 British Standard
• Upgrade old euro cylinders to anti-snap, anti-drill models
• Consider installing multi-point locking systems for uPVC or composite doors

At Locksmith CO, we supply and fit a wide range of insurance-approved locks to ensure your property meets the highest security standards.

2. Reinforce Entry Points Before You Travel

Many burglars enter through rear doors, garages, or ground-floor windows, especially when properties are left empty. Before you head out for the holidays, make sure all entry points are secure.

Checklist:

• Fit window locks on all accessible windows
• Use patio door bolts and sash jammers for added strength
• Lock your garage and interior connecting doors
• Install a door chain or security bar for extra front door protection

Our technicians offer home security assessments to identify weak spots before you go away.

3. Invest in Smart Locks and Remote Monitoring

Smart locks offer flexibility and control—ideal for holiday periods when:

• You’re away from home
• Family or neighbours need temporary access
• You want to monitor entry remotely

Benefits of smart locks:

• Keyless entry (PIN, app, or fingerprint)
• Mobile alerts when someone accesses the door
• Ability to create temporary guest codes
• Integration with CCTV or alarm systems

Locksmith CO installs and configures smart locks from leading brands like Yale, Nuki, and Ultion Smart, with full support across all London postcodes.

4. Use Timers and Lighting to Create the Illusion of Occupancy

Empty homes are easy to spot—especially in the darker winter months. A simple way to reduce your risk is to make it look like someone’s home.

Try the following:

• Use smart light bulbs or plug-in timers to switch lights on/off automatically
• Leave a radio or television on in a visible room
• Keep curtains drawn or use blinds in a partially open position

These small changes can discourage opportunistic intruders who are scouting for empty homes.

5. Don’t Advertise Your Holiday on Social Media

It’s tempting to share your travel plans or festive photos online—but broadcasting that your house is empty can be an invitation to thieves.

Our advice:

• Avoid posting your departure dates or itinerary
• Wait until you return to share holiday pictures
• Ask friends not to tag your location in real-time posts

Even with privacy settings in place, posts can be viewed or shared beyond your intended audience.

6. Secure Your Valuables and Deliveries

Burglars often target homes not just for electronics, but for easy-to-grab items like:

• Christmas presents
• Cash
• Jewellery
• Laptops and tablets

To reduce your risk:

• Keep valuables out of sight from windows
• Lock items in a home safe (ideally bolted to the floor or wall)
• Pause or redirect mail and parcel deliveries if you’ll be away

You can also request a trusted neighbour to collect deliveries and check on your property.

7. Ask a Neighbour or Friend to Check In

A trusted neighbour or friend can provide a visible presence while you’re away, making your home less of a target.

They can:

• Collect your mail
• Check your locks and windows
• Move your car occasionally
• Switch lights on and off
• Alert you to anything suspicious

We recommend giving them a spare key directly—never hide a key under a mat or flowerpot.

8. Install or Upgrade Your Home Alarm System

A visible and well-functioning alarm system is one of the best deterrents available. If you already have an alarm, test it before the holidays. If you don’t, now is the perfect time to install one.

Consider:

• Systems with motion sensors and door contacts
• Alarms that link to your smartphone or monitoring company
• Visible signage to deter burglars

We can recommend reliable alarm solutions to pair with your door and window locks.

9. Check Your Insurance Policy and Lock Requirements

Many homeowners don’t realise that having the wrong type of lock can void their insurance policy in the event of a break-in. Check your home insurance documentation carefully.

Most insurers require:

• BS3621-certified mortice or night latch locks
• Approved window locks on accessible openings
• Documentation or proof of professional installation

Locksmith CO provides installation certificates and detailed invoices to help with insurance compliance and claims.

10. Use a Professional Locksmith for Any Upgrades or Repairs

DIY repairs or budget hardware can leave your home more vulnerable. A qualified locksmith ensures:

• Proper fitting and alignment
• Locks that meet current security standards
• Fast response for any last-minute fixes
• Peace of mind before you head out

At Locksmith CO, our DBS-checked technicians work quickly and respectfully to secure your property—24/7, anywhere in London.

Be Holiday-Ready with Help from Locksmith CO

Whether you’re travelling, hosting guests, or simply want to make your home more secure this holiday season, Locksmith CO is here to help. We offer:

• Lock upgrades and replacements (BS3621, anti-snap, smart)
• Home security consultations and assessments
• Emergency repairs and burglary response
• Smart lock and alarm system installation
• Fast service across all London boroughs
• Insurance-compliant documentation

Call us today on +44 20 3885 1735
Or visit https://locksmithco.co.uk to book a security check before your holiday.

Protect your property and enjoy the season with peace of mind—from London’s trusted locksmith experts at Locksmith CO.