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December 23, 2025 – With many families traveling during the holidays, The Decatur Police are reminding residents to take a few simple precautions to protect their homes while they’re away. While most holiday trips are short, unattended homes can become targets for theft or vandalism if basic safety steps are overlooked.
Police recommend starting with the basics—making sure all doors and windows are securely locked before leaving. Residents should also consider pausing mail and newspaper deliveries or asking a trusted neighbor to collect packages to prevent deliveries from piling up and signaling that no one is home.
Using timers for indoor lights, televisions, or radios can help create the appearance of activity inside the home, especially during evening hours. Motion-sensor outdoor lighting is another effective way to deter unwanted visitors.
Safety officials also urge residents to be mindful of what they share online. Posting vacation photos or travel plans on social media while away can unintentionally advertise an empty home. Waiting until after returning to share holiday memories can help reduce that risk.
Finally, residents are encouraged to let a trusted friend or neighbor know they’ll be away, and to provide a contact number in case of an emergency. Taking a few preventative steps before leaving can help ensure a safer, more worry-free holiday season.
