AWAY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

The holidays are fun. Do you know what's not?... Coming home from the holidays to find that your house has been ransacked by the proverbial Grinch. Here are four simple tips to help keep the Grinch at bay this holiday season.

MAKE IT LOOK LIKE YOU'RE HOME.

Call the post office and have your mail stopped while you're away. Find someone to keep up the yard work, and shovel your driveway. Ask a neighbor to keep an eye on your property by collecting newspapers, flyers, etc., putting your trash bin out on collection day, and even parking one of their cars in your driveway.

Use outdoor light sensors, and program your indoor lights and stereo to turn on and off at a certain time. There are a number of ways to do this, including the use of push lights, and smart plugs that allow you to control lamps from anywhere.

And remember to call your District Police Station to place your house on vacation watch so that officers can keep an eye on your house during your absence.

DON'T SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOP

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When we say "Don't shout it from the rooftop," what we mean is don't post it on any social media outlets, or tell too many people. When you post "Friends, I'll be lounging on the beach for the next week. Be jealous," what burglars read is "Empty house. Open invitation."

Make your friends jealous AFTER you return home by posting all those pictures from your vacation, without inviting burglars into your house.

UNPLUG

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While leaving certain devices plugged in, and connected to an automated timer is good, you should unplug others. For instance, unplug your garage door. Burglars can easily activate your automated garage with a universal remote. Also, watch this video for a handy little trick that will also help protect your home from burglars trying to access your garage.

Additionally, unplug any devices that won't be in use while you're away, like that coffee maker.

LOCK IT UP

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Before you head out the door, cover your bases. Make sure all windows and doors are closed and locked. Cover doggie doors and secure garage doors. Investing in a home security system is also good idea. Many security systems even allow you to monitor your home remotely.