Keep the season festive: Explore tips to improve safety during the holidays

Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas gatherings, and spending quality time with family members are a few of the things we appreciate during the holidays. It’s a time for celebration, but the season has more safety risks. Thankfully, following some easy tips and using an advanced security system at your Joliet home can improve safety during the holidays.

Leaving town? Deter intrusions at your Joliet home with advanced video cameras and automation

Going to see relatives is a big part of the holidays, but leaving your Joliet property unoccupied increases the risk of burglaries. But there is a way to reduce the risk. Modern home security systems let you watch over your property no matter your location with advanced surveillance. You can view live feeds from your cameras via the smart home app on your cell phone.

The best surveillance systems take an active approach to defending your home. If a person comes within range, cameras will produce a sound or beam a light to frighten them away. Here are a few more ways you can prevent intrustions when you’re out: 

• Set lights to turn on at different times to make your house appear active
• Ensure your home security sign is in clear view
• Access your smarphone app to ensure doors are secured and your alarm is set
• Don’t broadcast on social networks that you’re leaving town

Protect against seasonal porch pirates in Joliet

For many families, the holidays bring a constant stream of packages to your door. Don’t attract prowlers by letting them sit on your porch. Rather, receive an instant update to your mobile device whenever a delivery appears so you are reminded to grab it. 

If possible, schedule deliveries for when you know you’ll be home. Alternatively, have a neighbor bring them in. You can turn off your alarm and unlock your door from your mobile device. If a person is knocking on your door, you can speak to them through your video doorbell’s bi-directional talk function. 

Follow established fire safety during the holidays in your Joliet home 

Christmas trees, candles, family meals, and string lights are popular during the holidays, but they also heighten your risk of fires. Here are a few tips on how to avoid them:

• Kitchen fires escalate during the holidays, especially at Thanksgiving. Don’t turn your back on a crowded stovetop. Keep kids away to prevent burns. Remember to adhere to manufacturer instructions when operating fryers.
• Keep Christmas trees hydrated and away from fireplaces and open flames, such as candles. Keep in mind that trees get more flammable as they dry out.
• Avoid overtaxing electrical outlets with excessive lights and cords. Loose connections and faulty outlets are prone to sparks and may lead to fires.
• Burning candles are enchanting but also dangerous around trees and decorations. Position them thoughtfully and always blow out flames when stepping out of a space.

Monitored fire alarms are an excellent way to upgrade your protection. When sensors like fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors integrate with your property’s security, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be alerted any time an alarm goes off, whether you’re home or away.

Remain safe during the holidays with a Vivint smart home in Joliet

Get all the equipment you need to remain safe during the holidays and all year long from Vivint. Our Joliet home security systems include advanced features like cameras with active deterrence, custom automation, and monitored environmental alarms. Contact us at (815) 427-4864 and give your family the gift of improved protection this season.