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

Chrismas get-togethers, Thanksgiving meals, and sharing quality time with loved ones are several of the activities we appreciate during the holidays. It’s a time to celebrate, but the season also includes an increased number of safety risks. Fortunately, adhering to some basic tips and using a well-equipped security system at your St. Louis residence can help ensure safety during the holidays.

Going out of town? Avoid break-ins at your St. Louis home with the latest video cameras and automation

Going to spend time with relatives is a cherished element of the holidays, but leaving your St. Louis property unoccupied increases the danger of break-ins. But there is an answer. Modern home security systems permit you to keep tabs on your home regardless of where you are with innovative surveillance. You can check live feeds from your video cameras via the home security app on your mobile device.

Top surveillance systems take an active approach to defending your home. If someone gets within range, cameras will emit a sound or cast a light to frighten them away. Here are a few more ways you can prevent break-ins when you’re out: 

• Program lights to activate at various times to make your house appear inhabited
• Confirm that your home security sign is in clear view
• Access your cell phone app to ensure doors are secured and your alarm activated
• Don’t broadcast on social networks that you’re leaving town

Defend against holiday porch pirates in St. Louis

For countless families, the holidays bring a consistent stream of packages to your door. Don’t attract prowlers by letting them sit outside. Rather, get an immediate notification to your smartphone whenever a delivery shows up so you are reminded to collect it. 

When you can, schedule deliveries for when you’ll be present. Alternatively, see if a neighbor can take them in. You can unlock your door and turn off your alarm from your smartphone. If someone is on your porch, you can speak to them with your video doorbell’s bi-directional talk function. 

Practice accepted fire safety during the holidays in your St. Louis 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 for how to avoid them:

• Kitchen fires rise during the holidays, especially at Thanksgiving. Always keep tabs on a crowded stovetop. Keep little ones away to protect against burns. Remember to adhere to manufacturer guidelines when using fryers.
• Hydrate Christmas trees and keep them clear of fireplaces and candles. Be mindful that trees get more fire-prone as they dry.
• Avoid overtaxing electrical outlets with too many lights and extension cords. Loose connections and faulty outlets are at risk of sparking and may cause fires.
• Glowing candles are enchanting but also hazardous around trees and other decor. Position them carefully and always put out flames when exiting a space.

Monitored fire alarms are an excellent way to enhance your protection. When environmental sensors like fire alarms and CO detectors connect to your home’s security, you and your dedicated monitoring professionals will be alerted when an alarm trips, whether you’re home or not.

Stay safe during the holidays with a Vivint smart home in St. Louis

Discover everything you need to remain safe during the holidays and every day of the year from Vivint. Our St. Louis smart security systems give you modern features like surveillance systems with active deterrence, custom automation, and monitored environmental alarms. Give us a call at (314) 866-4556 and give your family the gift of better protection this holiday.