Security & Fraud

'Tis the season to be safe

The holiday season conjures up images of homes beautifully decorated, inside and out - homes that display Christmas trees with colored lights, silver tinsel, glitter balls and candy canes.

Christmas is the time of the year when we try to forget about all the violence and corruption in the world and concentrate on the union of family and friends. It's a time when we actually get excited at the sound of our doorbell ringing in anticipation that a seldom-seen loved one is waiting outside for a warm embrace.

But what if a bad guy is waiting on your doorstep with intentions of harming you, or robbing your home? Staying safe at home involves a group effort by all family members.

That effort begins with making sure doors are locked at all times. With friends and neighbors coming and going throughout the season, make sure you accompany them to the door and lock it right away.

It's common knowledge that homes are usually stocked with gifts this time of year, and burglars are always looking to cash in on somebody else's Christmas, so don't make it easy for them by leaving doors and windows open.

Never open the door without knowing who's on the other side. Installing a 180-degree door viewer will give you maximum viewing optics. If you are home alone, keep lights on in several rooms, giving the impression that more people are in other rooms.

If a stranger comes calling, make him or her believe that you have somebody else in your home by yelling, "I'll get it!" It goes without saying if somebody comes calling at night and claims to be in trouble, do not open the door; call the police instead.

It's hard to refrain from the excitement of telling everybody your plans during the holiday season, but you should be careful who can hear you. Whether it be a store clerk or a neighbor, remember the wrong person might be listening to your conversation and find out private information about your holiday plans.

For the most part, we think of our homes as a secure refuge from the outside world, where we are safe and secure.

Don't give a burglar the opportunity to destroy your sense of security because you got caught up in the season and neglected your home's security.

Please check out my new Web site at www.yourhomesecurity.ca or e-mail me at Fourchalk@telus.net.