SAHBA Home Hints
December 16, 2007
Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Home
The holiday season is a time for giving to your loved ones, not to burglars.
“Statistically there are many more home invasions during the holiday season,” said Mark Crump, Sales Manager of American Video and Security Systems (AAVS). “It is imperative to do anything and everything you can do to protect your home.”
Some simple steps can be taken to help prevent home invasions.
Keep elaborate holiday decorations and gifts out of public display. Also, put away boxes that had expensive items like computers, TVs and DVD players in them. Leaving them on the curb can attract unwanted attention.
“During the holiday season, homeowners go shopping, attend parties, and partake in other holiday activities, leaving the home vacant more frequently than usual,” said Crump. “Letting neighbors know when you're leaving for extended periods of time can help protect your home.”
Make sure to leave indoor and outdoor lights on when you leave. Any kind of light or sound that can attract attention to an invasion will help to deter thieves from your home.
“A security system also can provide an added measure of protection to your home,” said Crump. “It can help protect your home and property 24 hours a day.”
Another great way to protect your home is by using the new NightWatch Deadbolt from Masterlock. This deadbolt features a patent-pending lock mechanism that blocks out all keys when it is engaged. To activate the mechanism, homeowners simply lock the deadbolt as usual and then depress a safety button.
“It's important to know that you have the freedom to do the things you'd like to do without constantly being worried that somebody will access your home,” said Crump, a SAHBA member.
Many homeowners have keys that are floating around without even knowing it. House keys often fall into the hands of babysitters, workmen, cleaning staff, and others who once had access to the home. When the NightWatch deadbolt is engaged, it cannot be picked or used to provide access to the home in any way.
“Taking these steps can protect your home, your valuables, and your holiday gifts,” said Crump. “But most importantly, it can protect your family.”
Details: Crump at (520)881-2885 or mark@afssusa.com.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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