Looking for that last minute gift can be tedious. Running from place to place trying to fight the crowds, some things are bound to be overlooked. Don’t let your home security be one of them. Here are some helpful tips to remember before you leave to get that one last thing for your holiday celebrations.

Don’t Leave Boxes From New Purchases Out On The Curb
Leaving your new computer box or DVD player package out on the curb is an invitation to thieves. Don’t advertise what you have in your home. Deconstruct boxes and place in a garbage bag before disposing of them.

Use a Timer For Lights When You’re Not Home
Simply leaving the lights on all day and night is not enough when yo’ure leaving town. A light left on all day is a sign that no one is home to turn it off. Use a timer to automatically turn on and off lights in and around your home. Consider using the timer for a radio or television as well.

Don’t Place Your Name On Your Mailbox Or Curb Sign
Thieves can look up your phone number from the name on your mailbox and determine whether or not you’re home. Don’t make it easy for them.

Don’t Leave Items Lying Around That Might Help a Burglar Enter Your Home
If you own a ladder or any other items that a burglar might use to enter your home, keep it stored in a locked shed or the garage.

Don’t Let Newspapers Or Mail Accumulate While You’re Away
Allowing newspapers or mail to accumulate lets burglars know that you’re not home and haven’t been home for awhile. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect your newspapers and notify the post office to hold your mail while you’re away.

Garages present special challenges for security. Here are some tips for keeping your garage secure.

• If you frost or cover your garage windows, burglars won’t be able to tell if your car is gone.
  
• Keep your garage door closed and locked even when your car is not in the garage.
  
• Install a peephole in the door separating the house from the garage. If you hear suspicious sounds, you can check without opening the door.
  
• Are you worried about someone entering your house through your attached garage? If the garage door lifts on a track, a C-clamp can provide extra security since the door cannot be opened if you tighten the C-clamp on the track next to the roller.

If you are gone for an extended period of time, be sure to hire a professional and reputable monitoring service, like Bulldog Security Services, to provide all of your home security needs.