Don’t Let the Grinch Steal your Christmas

The holiday season is here, and a few habits may leave you open to theft, so here are some tips.

Keeping Purchases in Your Car

Shopping for Christmas gifts can involve carrying a large number of packages around the mall or making trips to several stores around town. That means most of us resort to keeping gifts in our cars. To keep your purchases out of the prying eyes of thieves, hide them well and lock your vehicle. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight.

Social Media

Like to share when you get a good deal somewhere? Or maybe you’re traveling for the holidays and want to share pictures. These types of posts could tell a thief you aren’t home, leaving your house vulnerable to burglary. And make your profiles private.

Travel

If you’re traveling during the holidays, remember the social media tips above, but also invest in a timer for your lights, both indoors and out. A house that’s usually lit up for Christmas then suddenly stays dark over Christmas is a dead giveaway that you’re gone.

Ask a neighbor to collect any newspapers or deliveries while you’re gone, and place a hold on your mail delivery until you return. If you need an extra set of eyes to make sure your property is safe, a home surveillance system could be a good option.

For more information, talk to your local Shelter® insurance agent.

• Whit Hensman – 2581 N. College Ave., Fayetteville; 479-443-WHIT or 888-999-9448

• Taylor Wethers – 1805 N. Green Acres Road, Fayetteville; 479-443-9700 or 877-248-4538

• JT Finley – 2142 N. College Ave., Fayetteville; 479-521-4220

• Randy Hutchinson – 1226 N. Garland Ave., Fayetteville; 479-444-3344