Homeowners warned of a rise in burglaries this Christmas – here’s 7 tips on keeping your home safe

In the last 12 months there were 264,963 burglaries, according to the Office for National Statistics. So, whilst many Brits prepare for a Christmas spent with loved ones, opportunistic burglars will use the season to target empty homes.

During the course the festive period, households will spend an average of 4 nights away from their home in total with 42% intended to be away between Christmas and New Year.

However, there are measures you can take to help keep your home safe, and give you peace of mind, all throughout winter.

Ana Zuravliova, Trend Specialist at Blinds Direct, has shared seven often overlooked tips on how to minimise the chances of a break-in if you’re out of the house this Christmas time.

No gifts under the tree

“This may seem obvious but, the long-standing tradition of keeping gifts under the tree is a big no-no for safety.

“Wrapped gifts are new, often valuable and ready for quick resale, making them attractive targets. Something else to consider is that if you leave discarded packaging on display or near bins, this is another giveaway that you have expensive items inside.

“By hiding presents and packing until the last moment, you reduce the chances of an opportunistic break-in and help keep your home secure.”

Create a ‘lived-in’ appearance with blinds and curtains

“A window display with fully open blinds or permanently closed curtains signals to passers-by that no one is in. Homes left in this static state are far more likely to be targeted.

“Set your blinds or curtains to a mid-point on the day you leave, this provides privacy while still letting in natural light. It avoids the starkness of a fully closed home but doesn’t look frozen in time either.

“If possible, ask a neighbour to adjust them occasionally during your trip to simulate occupancy.”

Make the most of smart home features – electric blinds and timer lighting

“Most of us don’t have someone to manage our windows while we’re away and blinds that never move can make a property look vacant.

“ Electric blinds can be programmed to open and close at specific times, mimicking real behaviour without needing anyone to lift a finger.

“These systems offer not only privacy but also replicate daily routines. Some even work via smartphone apps, meaning you can adjust your blinds from anywhere around the world.

“A dark house during the evening is a sure sign that no one’s in. Instead, consider timer-controlled lighting.

“Use smart plugs or timer switches to set a few lamps to turn on and off at different intervals in the evening, replicating what someone might do naturally. For example, a hallway lamp at 6pm, and a living room light at 9pm.

“You don’t need to light up the whole house, just create believable signals that someone’s moving about indoors.”

Opt for windows and doors with enhanced security

“Intruders target vulnerable locks, weak frames, or accessible windows.

“To effectively secure your doors and windows from break-ins, focus on strengthening entry points with laminated glass, durable frames, and robust locking mechanisms.

“Laminated glass windows are a good deterrent against break-ins, as they are more robust and in turn, more difficult to break through than regular glass. The interlayer between the glass panes significantly resists impact and force, making it difficult for a burglar to enter.

“For locks, deadbolts are one of the most popular and effective types of burglarproof options. They extend a solid metal bolt into the door frame, providing an additional layer of security beyond most standard locksets.

“Opt for Secured by Design (SBD) doors and windows, accredited products that have been designed and manufactured to meet stringent security standards, backed by the police and designed to combat crime.”

Place some big boots next to the door

“Placing a sturdy pair of large boots by your front door is a surprisingly effective yet unusual seasonal security trick.

“It subtly suggests that someone is home. But not just anyone, but someone who looks physically imposing. Burglars often make quick judgments based on visual cues, and the sight of heavy work boots can be enough to make them think twice. This small detail adds an extra layer of psychological deterrence that is particularly useful over Christmas, when homes can appear empty during visits or evenings out.”

Dummy cameras and small deterrents

“Unlocked garages, side doors or windows are prime entry points. But visible deterrents can stop a thief in their tracks.

“Install a dummy CCTV camera in a visible location. Pair it with a motion activated light and a clear alarm system sticker. These create enough doubt to make many burglars look elsewhere.

“Burglars are opportunists. If your house looks like it’s under surveillance, they’ll move to an easier target.”

Be mindful of what you post

“Announcing your Christmas plans, whether in person or online, can spread beyond trusted friends.

“Avoid broadcasting of where you’re spending time away from home on social media. If you want to share pictures, try and wait until you return.

These tips are all about one thing - creating the illusion of occupancy. From well-timed lighting to smarter blinds, it’s often the subtle details that most convincingly say, ‘someone’s home’.

By planning ahead with these simple, practical steps, you can leave for your holiday with confidence, knowing your home looks secure and is protected, even when you’re not there.

For more information, on smart blinds, please visit: https://www.blindsdirect.co.uk/blog/the-benefits-of-smart-blinds