Keep the season merry: Find tips to ensure safety during the holidays

Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas gatherings, and spending quality time with family members are several of the traditions we appreciate over the holidays. It’s a time for celebration, but the season also includes an increased number of safety risks. Fortunately, following some basic guidelines and using a well-equipped security system at your Ocala property can help ensure safety during the holidays.

Are you traveling? Deter break-ins at your Ocala home with modern video cameras and automation

Venturing out to visit relatives is a holiday tradition, but leaving your Ocala home vacant increases the risk of intrusions. But there is an answer. Modern home security systems let you monitor your home regardless of your location with advanced surveillance. You may view real-time feeds from your video cameras through the home security app on your cell phone.

Top surveillance systems can actively defend your home from prowlers. If someone comes within range, cameras will use visible and audible cues to frighten them away. Here are serveral other ways you can prevent intrustions when you’re out: 

• Schedule lights to turn on at different intervals to make your home seem occupied
• Confirm that your home security signage is in clear view
• Make sure doors are secured and your alarm is set through the smartphone app
• Avoid sharing on social media that you’re going out of town

Safeguard against seasonal porch pirates in Ocala

For numerous families, the holidays mean a steady flow of packages to your front door. Don’t attract prowlers by leaving them on your stoop. Instead, receive an immediate alert to your smartphone whenever a delivery arrives so you are reminded to collect it. 

When you can, plan deliveries for when you’ll be present. Otherwise, see if a neighbor can collect them. You can open your door and deactivate your alarm from your phone. If someone is on your porch, you can talk to them via your video doorbell’s bi-directional talk function. 

Follow established fire safety during the holidays in your Ocala home 

Ornamental lights, candles, Christmas trees, and home-cooked meals are common during the holidays, but they also increase the risk of fires. Here are some tips on how to prevent them:

• Cooking fires increase during the holidays, particularlly at Thanksgiving. Always keep tabs on an active stovetop. Keep kids clear of hot burners to protect against burns. Remember to adhere to manufacturer instructions when operating fryers.
• Water Christmas trees and keep them away from fireplaces and candles. Be mindful that trees become more combustible as they dry out.
• Don’t overwhelm electrical outlets with extension cords and lights. Improper connections and damaged outlets are known to spark and may result in fires.
• Glowing candles are beautiful but also risky around decorations and trees. Use them carefully and always blow out flames when stepping out of a space.

Monitored fire alarms are a fantastic way to enhance your protection. When sensors like fire alarms and CO detectors connect to your home’s security, you and your 24-7 monitoring specialists will be notified any time an alarm sounds, whether you’re there or away.

Remain safe during the holidays with a Vivint smart home in Ocala

Find everything you need to stay safe during the holidays and all year long from Vivint. Our Ocala home security systems offer modern features like custom automation, monitored environmental alarms and cameras with active deterrence. Reach us at (352) 922-3678 and give your loved ones the gift of better protection this holiday season.