WHO doesn’t love the excitement of piling presents under their Christmas tree?
One home security expert advised against putting your buys out on display until December 25.
Christmas may be the most wonderful time of the year for families but it’s also prime time for burglars.
Piles of wrapped expensive presents can be an irresistible target for criminals.
To ensure your holiday remains merry and bright, a home professional has shared his expertise.
Glenn Flannery, Group Commercial Director at Spy Alarms shared his top tips on how to safeguard your home this festive season.
So follow these steps to prevent the Grinch stealing away all your present.
First, the expert addressed the way people display their presents in the lead up to the big day.
“Gifts [are] stacked in the same predictable place under the tree, giving burglars the opportunity to grab lots of presents in one go,” he said.
“They’re also in their original packaging which makes them of extra value.
“Burglars can easily resell these gifts because they’re brand new, making it the perfect low-risk and high-reward crime.”
He recommended waiting until Christmas day to put your presents your your tree.
“Although it’s tempting to leave gifts neatly wrapped under the tree, hold off on putting them out until Christmas morning,” he said.
“This will reduce the chance of your gifts being spotted by burglars before Christmas and as such, less of a target.”
The security pro also advised homeowners to store their presents in “several different bags”.
“Spread your presents around the house to give burglars less chance to locate your presents,” he explained.
“The loft, wardrobes, or even different rooms can help make your gifts less accessible to thieves.”
Consumer reporter Sam Walker reveals how you can save money on your Christmas shopping.
Limit the amount of presents – buying presents for all your family and friends can cost a bomb.
Instead, why not organise a Secret Santa between your inner circles so you’re not having to buy multiple presents.
Plan ahead – if you’ve got the stamina and budget, it’s worth buying your Christmas presents for the following year in the January sales.
Make sure you shop around for the best deals by using price comparison sites so you’re not forking out more than you should though.
Buy in Boxing Day sales – some retailers start their main Christmas sales early so you can actually snap up a bargain before December 25.
Delivery may cost you a bit more, but it can be worth it if the savings are decent.
Shop via outlet stores – you can save loads of money shopping via outlet stores like Amazon Warehouse or Office Offcuts.
They work by selling returned or slightly damaged products at a discounted rate, but usually any wear and tear is minor.
For his next tip, the expert suggested investing in a security alarm for your home.
“Burglaries tend to spike during the winter months, especially around events such as Christmas where many homeowners leave their properties unattended for days,” he said.
“One cost effective way of securing your home is to get a burglar alarm.
“Not only will it alert you to potential intruders, but it’s also a significant deterrent.”
He pointed out that if a burglar knows your routine, they can easily work out when you’re likely to not be home.
“The presence of an alarm system sends a strong message not to target your home,” he explained.
“The visible bell box and loud alert is great for showing burglars that you’re well protected and breaking in could result in immediate alert.
“The reassurance of knowing that your home is being monitored and any attempts to break in will result in an alarm, should give you peace of mind in the run up to Christmas.”
Finally, he shared a hack he uses to maintain the festive atmosphere without risking his belongings.
“If you want to still have the cosy vibes of Christmas presents under the tree but don’t want to draw in any unwanted attention, consider creating fake presents,” he advised.
“If a burglar does try to steal your presents, all they’ll be met with is some boxes filled with newspapers or something invaluable.
“However, make sure you keep your curtains closed so burglars cannot see them.”
According to the expert, following these tips will help prevent Christmas from being ruined and will ensure that burglars won’t be the ones unwrapping your Christmas presents this year.
“Ensure you remain vigilant, safe, and well equipped.”
