Keep the season full of cheer: Discover tips to boost safety during the holidays

Chrismas gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, and sharing precious moments with family are several of the traditions we cherish during the holidays. It’s a time to celebrate, but the season also includes more safety risks. Fortunately, adhering to some simple recommendations and using a well-equipped security system at your Gulfport home can help ensure safety during the holidays.

Are you traveling? Prevent burglaries at your Gulfport home with the latest video cameras and automation

Going to visit relatives is a big element of the holidays, but leaving your Gulfport home vacant raises the threat of intrusions. But there is a way to reduce the risk. Modern home security systems let you keep tabs on your property no matter where you are with the latest surveillance. You are able to access live streams from your cameras through the home security app on your smartphone.

The best surveillance systems take an active role in defending your home. If an individual comes too close, cameras will shine a light or generate a sound to scare them away. Here are serveral other ways you can prevent intrustions when you’re out: 

• Schedule lights to activate at various intervals to make your house look occupied
• Make sure your home security yard sign is in clear view
• Check to confirm doors are secured and your system is armed through the home security app
• Don’t announce on social platforms that you’re leaving town

Safeguard against Chrismastime porch pirates in Gulfport

For many families, the holidays bring a constant flow of packages to the front door. Don’t attract thieves by letting them sit on your stoop. Alternatively, obtain an immediate notification to your mobile device whenever a delivery appears so you are reminded to grab it. 

If possible, plan deliveries for when you’re home. When that’s not possible, have a neighbor bring them in. You can unlock your door and temporarily turn off your alarm from your phone. If a person is knocking on your door, you can talk to them through your video doorbell’s bi-directional talk function. 

Practice proper fire safety during the holidays in your Gulfport home 

Christmas trees, candles, ornamental lights, and home-cooked meals are a part of the holidays, but they also increase the risk of fires. Here are several tips on how to circumvent them:

• Kitchen blazes rise during the holidays, particularlly at Thanksgiving. Never turn your back on an active stovetop. Keep children clear of hot burners to protect against burns. Be sure to adhere to manufacturer guidelines when using fryers.
• Water Christmas trees and keep them away from fireplaces and open flames, such as candles. Remember that trees get more combustible as they dry out.
• Avoid overburdening electrical outlets with excessive lights and cords. Insecure connections and older outlets are at risk of sparking and may lead to fires.
• Glowing candles are lovely but also risky around trees and other decor. Place them wisely and always put out flames when stepping out of a space.

Monitored fire alarms are a fantastic way to improve your protection. When sensors like fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors integrate with your home’s security, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will know any time an alarm sounds, whether you’re there or not.

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

Find all the tools you need to stay safe during the holidays and all year long from Vivint. Our Gulfport smart homes include innovative features like custom automation, monitored fire alarms and video cameras with active deterrence. Contact us at (228) 338-1467 and give your household the gift of better security this season.