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

Thanksgiving feasts, Christmas parties, and sharing quality time with family are some of the activities we cherish over the holidays. It’s a time to celebrate, but the season has an increased number of safety risks. Luckily, abiding by some simple recommendations and using an advanced security system at your Omaha residence can improve safety during the holidays.

Are you traveling? Deter intrusions at your Omaha home with the latest video cameras and automation

Traveling to see relatives is a holiday tradition, but leaving your Omaha house empty increases the risk of intrusions. But there is a way to reduce the risk. Modern home security systems let you watch over your home no matter your whereabouts with innovative surveillance. You can access live streams from your cameras with the home security app on your mobile device.

The best surveillance devices take an active approach to defending your home. If a person comes within range, cameras will shine a light or emit a sound to send them running. Here are some additional ways you can avoid invasions when you’re away: 

• Set lights to turn on at various intervals to make your house look occupied
• Make sure your home security sign is in clear view
• Access your home security app to ensure doors are locked and your system armed
• Avoid announcing on social platforms that you’re going out of town

Defend against seasonal porch pirates in Omaha

For numerous families, the holidays bring a steady stream of packages to your front door. Avoid attracting thieves by leaving them outside. Instead, obtain an instant alert to your smartphone whenever a delivery arrives so you are reminded to retrieve it. 

When you can, plan deliveries for when you’ll be present. Alternatively, see if a neighbor can take them in. You can disarm your system and unlock your door from your mobile device. If a person is on your porch, you can communicate with them via your doorbell camera’s two-way talk function. 

Follow proper fire safety during the holidays in your Omaha home 

Christmas trees, candles, decorative lights, and home-cooked meals are common during the holidays, but they also put you at risk for fires. Here are a few tips on how to avoid them:

• Kitchen fires escalate during the holiday season, notably at Thanksgiving. Avoid turning your back on a crowded stovetop. Keep little ones at a distance to prevent burns. Always observe manufacturer guidelines when operating fryers.
• Water Christmas trees and keep them clear of fireplaces and open flames, such as candles. Keep in mind that trees grow more flammable as they dehydrate.
• Don’t overwhelm electrical outlets with too many lights and extension cords. Improper connections and damaged outlets are at risk of sparking and may result in fires.
• Glowing candles are lovely but also hazardous around trees and other decor. Use them carefully and always put out flames when stepping out of a space.

Monitored fire alarms are a great way to enhance your protection. When environmental sensors like fire alarms and CO detectors connect to your property’s security, you and your 24-hour monitoring specialists will know whenever an alarm trips, whether you’re on site or away.

Stay safe during the holidays with a Vivint smart home in Omaha

Find all the equipment you need to remain safe during the holidays and every day of the year from Vivint. Our Omaha smart security systems include modern features like surveillance systems with active deterrence, custom automation, and monitored fire alarms. Contact us at (402) 925-9471 and give your household the gift of better protection this holiday season.