Urgent Christmas warning as heartless burglars target homes left empty | UK | News
It sounds like the plot of the hit Christmas movie Home Alone, but unfortunately the reality is that thieves are indeed staking out homes left empty over the festive period. In 1990’s iconic Christmas movie, Macaulay Culkin plays Kevin McCallister, a resourceful eight-year-old boy who defends his Chicago home against a pair of burglars after his family accidentally leaves him behind and goes on vacation to France.
In the movie, two crooks named Harry and Marv spend their time looking for houses to rob in a nice neighborhood left empty after families leave for the holidays. Although they at first think Kevin’s house is empty, the hapless pair of crooks later attempt to burglarize the house with Kevin inside but are thwarted by the young boy’s ingenious ideas for defending his home, including electric door handles, painfully crushed ornaments, icy walkways, a propane torch, and swinging irons and paint pots.
Hank and Marv are eventually arrested by the police, but it’s worth remembering that in real life there are criminals spying on your home, too. Home security expert Matthew Lake, from Guardian Safe And Vault, highlighted how burglars can detect your absence over the festive season.
he told the Liverpool Echo Here are some top tips on what to avoid to help protect a property from burglars this season.
Unchanging lighting patterns
Consistent lighting patterns are such a gift. If the lights are constantly on or off, it means there is no one at home to change them. To counteract this, create a variety of lighting schedules using smart home technology or timers. This simulates a full house, making it less obvious that you’re away.
Overflowing mail and parcels
A pile of mail, leaflets, newspapers, or undelivered packages outside a home signals that the occupants will be away for an extended period of time. However, you can request postal and newspaper deliveries to be stopped during your absence through your local Post Office.
Arrange deliveries for packages while at home or take advantage of secure package delivery services. Alternatively, you can ask a neighbor to collect these items on your behalf.
Neglected exterior
Uncut grass or snow piled up in the driveway may be an indication that no one is home. This is especially evident when the surrounding properties appear well-maintained.
The solution is simple: Have a friend cut the grass or shovel the snow while you’re away. This reinforces the illusion that someone is still living there.
Matthew warned: “Although discouraging, the reality is that some criminals are using the festive season for personal gain. But by taking the right precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of being targeted and ensure the safety of your home and belongings.”
