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

Chrismas gatherings, Thanksgiving dinners, and sharing quality time with family are a few of the traditions we appreciate over the holidays. It’s a time for celebration, but the season has an increased number of safety risks. Luckily, adhering to some simple tips and using a well-equipped security system at your Bend home can help ensure safety during the holidays.

Are you traveling? Prevent intrusions at your Bend home with modern video cameras and automation

Going to spend time with relatives is an important part of the holidays, but leaving your Bend house unoccupied increases the threat of intrusions. But there is a way to reduce the risk. Modern home security systems allow you to monitor your home no matter your location with the latest surveillance. You are able to access live streams from your video cameras through the smart home app on your cell phone.

Top surveillance devices take an active approach to protecting your home. If someone gets too close, cameras will emit a sound or cast a light to scare them away. Here are serveral other ways you can deter intrustions when you’re out: 

• Set lights to activate at various times to make your house look active
• Make sure your home security yard sign is visible
• Make sure doors are locked and your alarm is set through the smartphone app
• Avoid sharing on social networks that you’re traveling

Defend against Chrismastime porch pirates in Bend

For countless families, the holidays include a consistent stream of packages to your front door. Avoid attracting prowlers by leaving them on your porch. Instead, get an immediate update to your phone whenever a package shows up so you know to grab it. 

Whenever possible, arrange deliveries for when you’re home. Alternatively, ask a neighbor to collect them. You can unlock your door and temporarily disarm your system from your smartphone. If a person is at your door, you can talk to them via your doorbell camera’s 2-way talk function. 

Follow established fire safety during the holidays in your Bend home 

Christmas trees, candles, ornamental lights, and homemade meals are a part of the holidays, but they also put you at risk for fires. Here are some tips for how to avoid them:

• Cooking fires increase during the holiday season, notably at Thanksgiving. Avoid turning your back on an active stovetop. Keep kids at a distance to prevent burns. Be sure to observe manufacturer guidelines when using fryers.
• Keep Christmas trees hydrated and clear of fireplaces and candles. Keep in mind that trees grow more combustible as they dry.
• Avoid overtaxing electrical outlets with extension cords and lights. Insecure connections and older outlets are prone to sparks and may cause fires.
• Lit candles are enchanting but also dangerous around trees and other decor. Use them wisely and always put out flames when leaving an area.

Monitored fire alarms are an excellent way to improve your protection. When sensors like fire alarms and CO detectors link to your home security, you and your dedicated monitoring professionals will be notified any time an alarm trips, whether you’re on site or away.

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

Get everything you need to remain safe during the holidays and all year long from Vivint. Our Bend home security systems include advanced features like custom automation, monitored environmental alarms and surveillance with active deterrence. Give us a call at (541) 327-4968 and give your household the gift of improved protection this holiday season.