10 Tips for a Safer and Crime-Free Christmas Season at Home

During the holidays police departments around the country strengthen security to protect citizens and businesses. You see more officers patrolling shopping centers and parking lots, paying special attention to those vehicles with shopping bags and articles in plain view that might be an easy target for thieves.

But we often forget that crime in neighborhoods also increases. Thieves start canvassing the streets in search of packages left in cars outside homes and families away for the holidays.

You might be feeling safer on these days while Christmas shopping, but it is also necessary to take some precautions at home to avoid becoming a target of crime.

"With the rise in internet purchases during the holiday season, thefts of packages being delivered or left at your front door is also becoming more and more common," says Steve Jones, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Universal Protection Service, a company that offers fire, and life safety services.

Companies like this, along with law enforcement officials, offer these tips to reduce your chances of being hit at home by thieves this Christmas season and all year long:

1. Conceal wrapped presents from outside view.

2. If you need to store large items, such as exercise equipment or bicycles, in an outside building make sure they are safe.

3. If you have insurance, take some time to make sure it covers all articles of value in your home.

4. Be alert to strangers walking around in your neighborhood and report any suspicious activity to the police.

5. Make sure to lock all doors and windows every time you leave the house.

6. Don't leave checkbooks, wallets and cash lying around the house.

7. Install automatic timers and motion detectors on both front and back porch lights

8. Ask a neighbor to pick up your newspaper and mail if you plan to be away from home for more than one day.

9. If you will be out of town, make sure someone knows where you are going and when you will return

10. Whenever possible take or update your home inventory by taking pictures or videos and keeping a list of serial numbers.

Remember that crime increases during the Christmas season. Don't let thieves ruin your holidays. Don't give criminals an opportunity. Keep these tips in mind as you rush around and make some time to take extra precautions for a better Christmas with your family and friends.