Beware of the Naughty List....

Christmas is a time for giving, receiving.... and taking too. Criminal behavior that commonly occurs around the holiday season can turn what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year into the most awful. Here's a few RedLight Security Tips & Tricks to make sure you have a safe and merry holiday season!

Minimize Street Visibility into Your Home - During the holiday season we fall into the habit of keeping our drapes, curtains, and window blinds open to display holiday décor. However, this can turn your home and its valuables into window shopping for prospective burglars. Keep your valuables out of sight and your windows covered.

Use Lighting to Deter Would-Be Criminals - Burglars generally do not like to be spotted when attempting to enter your home. Make sure the outside of your home is equipped with adequate lighting. You should also leave lights on in the home or put lights on timers if you plan to go out for the night or an extended period of time to give the illusion that there is some one home.

Be Careful with Social Media - If you plan to take a holiday trip, beware of how much information you post about an 'upcoming trip' or about the 'holiday vacation' you are on. Regardless of your privacy settings being viewed by your 'friends' only, crimes of opportunity can often occur by the people we know or the people we don't that may have access to their account.

Protect Your Identity - Identity theft peaks during the holiday season. Be sure to shred un-needed receipts and paperwork before disposal. Also make sure to make purchases from reputable vendors and use secure payment services.

Be Discreet With Package Disposal - Refuse tends to stack up over the holidays, but don't be so quick to put it all on the curb. For higher priced gifts, make sure to take pictures of the items and their serial numbers. This is not only a pre-caution should you need to claim a product's warranty, but also on the off chance an item is stolen or lost. Make sure to dispose of items discreetly so as not to advertise your new merchandise to potential thieves.