Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year — but it is also the most dangerous for home security. Statistics from the Office for National Statistics consistently show that burglary rates spike significantly during the festive period, with December and January seeing some of the highest rates of the year.
Why Christmas Increases Burglary Risk
Several factors combine to make the Christmas period particularly attractive to opportunistic burglars:
- Valuable gifts on display: New electronics, jewellery, and expensive presents are often visible through windows or left under trees near glass doors.
- Homes left empty: Many families travel to visit relatives, leaving properties unoccupied for days at a time.
- Reduced vigilance: Neighbours are often away or distracted by festivities, reducing the natural surveillance that deters crime.
- Advertising on social media: Posting holiday photos in real time tells burglars exactly when your home is empty.
- Recycling bin evidence: Leaving large boxes from expensive gifts outside is a clear signal of what is inside your home.
Peak Times for Christmas Burglaries
Research shows that burglaries peak between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day, with a secondary spike in early January when people return to work. Late afternoon and early evening — when it gets dark but people are not yet home — are the most common times for break-ins.
How to Protect Your Home This Christmas
1. Upgrade Your Locks Before the Holidays
If your locks are more than 10 years old or do not meet British Standard BS3621, now is the time to upgrade. A five-lever mortice lock combined with a quality night latch provides excellent protection. Keys4U can install British Standard locks quickly and affordably.
2. Use Timer Switches for Lights
Programmable timer switches make your home appear occupied even when you are away. Set lights, radios, and TVs to switch on and off at realistic times throughout the evening.
3. Secure All Entry Points
Do not forget side gates, garage doors, and outbuildings. Many burglars gain access through secondary entry points that homeowners overlook. Ensure all padlocks are high-security models and all door locks are in good working order.
4. Install or Check Your Alarm System
A visible burglar alarm is one of the most effective deterrents. If you already have one, have it serviced before Christmas. If you do not, Keys4U offers professional alarm installation across London and the UK.
5. CCTV Cameras
Modern CCTV systems with remote viewing allow you to monitor your property from anywhere in the world. Even a visible camera housing acts as a powerful deterrent.
6. Be Careful on Social Media
Avoid posting holiday plans or real-time updates while you are away. Save the photos for when you return home.
7. Ask a Trusted Neighbour
Ask a neighbour to collect post, park in your driveway occasionally, and keep an eye on your property. A house that looks lived-in is far less attractive to burglars.
What to Do If You Are Burgled
If you return home to find signs of a break-in, do not enter the property. Call the police immediately on 999. Once the police have attended, call Keys4U for emergency lock replacement and boarding-up services. We operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — including Christmas Day.
Keys4U Christmas Security Checklist
- Check all door and window locks are functioning correctly
- Upgrade to British Standard locks if needed
- Install or test your burglar alarm
- Set up timer switches for lights
- Secure all outbuildings and gates
- Avoid advertising your absence on social media
- Break down and dispose of gift boxes discreetly
- Inform a trusted neighbour of your plans
Do not let burglars ruin your Christmas. Contact Keys4U today for a free security assessment and professional lock upgrades to keep your home safe throughout the festive season and beyond.
