2020 has been a wild roller coaster ride with plenty of ups and downs. For the most part, bad things have far outweighed the good, but on the plus side, the holidays are right around the corner. Sure, family gatherings might be a bit different because of social distancing and masks, but it is still a time for folks to be happy and merry, even if for only a brief period. However, there are loads of grinches in the world today that could try to ruin your Christmas.

No, they are not big and green, although they do come in various shapes and sizes. The culprits in question are thieves, trespassers, and vandals. These criminals steal presents and valuables or break anything and everything in their paths. Heck, some of them may even spy on unsuspecting family members by climbing trees and peering through windows. Homeowners do not have to accept these fates and allow perpetrators to do as they please, though. Instead, they can take certain steps to safeguard their properties and keep them at bay.

The remaining sections of this article will focus on several ways to make a home safe and secure. With any luck, they will help homeowners stop grinches in their tracks. Hence, interested readers should stick around and read on to learn more.

Eliminate Hiding Places With Outdoor Lighting

Dimly lit yards give criminals all sorts of places to hide at night. They can stay in the shadows and remain out of sight. For example, a voyeur could hang out in the bushes, watching a family's every move, and without anyone being the wiser. Eliminate such hiding spots by installing motion-activated lighting. The devices shine brightly as soon as movement is detected. They can prove to be just what the doctor ordered for preventing criminals from ruining your holidays.

Install Security Cameras In Strategic Locations

It is no secret that people in the US are struggling financially right now. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit the working class hard in their pocketbooks. Billionaires seem to be doing okay, as they are making money, but average Joe’s are struggling. Therefore, it should not be a surprise if more and more burglaries come to fruition around the holidays. There is no sure-fire way to stop every break-in; however, surveillance cameras may prevent some of them.

The mere presence of cameras deters many criminals. After all, they don't want to be captured on video committing crimes. That could lead to them getting identified and thrown behind bars. As such, many crooks avoid houses with the units, and if not, the footage can help officers identify suspects and recover stolen property.

Stop Mail Deliveries When Going Out Of Town

Mailboxes full to the brim with letters and magazines inform burglars that houses are probably empty, and they have been for quite some time. In other words, they gain the feeling that they can break-in, steal everything but the kitchen sink, and sneak away without anyone knowing. The last thing anybody wants is to return home following holiday trips to find their places ransacked. So, contact your post office before heading out of town and have them hold your mail until you return.
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