Holiday travel is one of the busiest times of the year in Colorado — and unfortunately, one of the busiest times for break-ins, porch piracy, and crimes of opportunity.

Before you pack your bags, run through this complete, locksmith-approved security checklist to keep your home safe while you’re away.

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1. Reinforce Your Doors Properly

You don’t need expensive alarm systems to deter break-ins — you need strong hardware.

Before you leave:

• Ensure your deadbolt fully extends into the strike
• Tighten hinge screws
• Replace ½” screws with 3″ screws into the studs
• Add a door reinforcement plate if you have a hollow frame
• Check that the door closes cleanly (misalignment = weak security)

Most break-ins are forced entry through the door — not lock picking.

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2. Rekey If You’ve Recently Handed Out Keys

Did you:

• Let contractors work inside the home?
• Give a neighbor or dog-sitter a key?
• Have a roommate move out this year?

If yes, rekey before your trip.
It’s affordable, fast, and ensures only the people you trust can enter.

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3. Secure Sliding Doors & Basement Windows

Sliding doors are a favorite weak point for holiday burglars.

Do this before leaving:
✔ Insert a rod in the track
✔ Use a pin lock or auxiliary sliding-door lock
✔ Install window security latches on basement windows
✔ Ensure window wells are clear and visible

A simple $10 track bar can prevent a $10,000 loss.

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4. Don’t Announce Your Travel Online

Post photos after you return — not during your trip.
Criminals absolutely use social media to identify empty homes.

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5. Install or Reposition Cameras

Cameras don’t need to be part of an alarm system to be effective.

Place cameras to monitor:

• Front door
• Driveway
• Side yard
• Back patio
• Package delivery areas

Aim for face-level angles, not roof-level sky shots.

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6. Prepare Your Lights

Good lighting = fewer opportunities.

Use:
✔ Motion lighting
✔ Timers
✔ Smart lights
✔ Low-voltage pathway lights

A lit home looks occupied, even when it’s not.

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7. Avoid Overloading Your Garage Door Opener

Cold weather weakens springs and sensors.
Check that your garage door:

• Fully closes
• Isn’t stuck on ice
• Has a functioning manual lock (if present)

Garage entries are heavily targeted during holiday season.

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8. Ask Someone to Check the Home Every 1–2 Days

Even a quick drive-by helps.
Bonus: they can grab delivered packages before thieves do.

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Traveling for the Holidays? Let Us Help Secure Your Home

Get a full home security check before you leave.

📞 Aurora: (303) 745-5500
📞 Parker: (303) 745-5000
🌐 arapahoesecurity.com

Enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

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