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By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher, Prince William Living
December brings twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and the joy of traveling to see loved ones. It is one of the most anticipated months of the year, but also one of the busiest. Between shopping, decorating, hosting, and traveling, it’s easy to forget the small steps that keep families and homes safe.
Whether staying local or preparing to hit the road, residents can take simple precautions that provide peace of mind throughout the holiday season. From securing homes and vehicles to ensuring fire safety and neighborhood awareness, these preparations ensure the focus remains on celebration, not worry.
Securing the Home Before Traveling
One of the most effective ways to enjoy the holidays with peace of mind is to ensure the home is secure before leaving.
Lock and secure all entrances. It may sound basic, but in the rush of packing and departure, many homeowners forget to double-check windows, basement doors, and garage access. A few extra minutes to test locks can prevent unwanted surprises later.
Keep the lights on. A dark home signals vacancy. Using timers or smart plugs for lamps and holiday lights creates the appearance of activity. Even inexpensive plug-in timers can be programmed to mimic everyday routines, deterring potential burglars.
Manage mail and packages. Piled-up mail or packages left on the porch are clear indicators that no one is home. Residents can place a hold on their mail with the USPS, reschedule deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect items.
Set the thermostat. Interior pipes can freeze if the home becomes too cold. Setting the thermostat no lower than 55°F and opening cabinet doors beneath sinks allows warm air to circulate and reduces the risk of costly damage.
Technology for Peace of Mind
Modern technology has made home monitoring easier than ever.
Video doorbells and cameras, such as Ring or Nest, allow homeowners to see and speak to visitors in real-time, regardless of the distance. These devices also record activity around the house, providing reassurance if packages are delivered or unexpected visitors appear.
Smart thermostats allow homeowners to adjust the temperature remotely. If the weather changes suddenly, a few taps on a smartphone can protect pipes or make the house more comfortable before returning.
DIY or professional security systems add another layer of protection. Residents should update emergency contacts with monitoring companies before traveling and ensure that alarms are tested and in working order.
Trusted neighbors remain one of the best defenses. Asking a neighbor to keep an eye on the property, collect packages, or park in the driveway can create the impression that someone is home.
Safety While Hosting Gatherings
Not all holiday celebrations require leaving town. For many, December is about welcoming family, friends, and neighbors into the home. Preparing for gatherings involves more than food and decorations—safety is part of the checklist.
Keep walkways clear. Wet leaves, ice, and snow can quickly turn driveways and sidewalks into hazards. Clearing these areas and scattering salt when necessary reduces the risk of falls.
Fire safety matters. A roaring fire or flickering candles create a festive atmosphere, but both require care. Fireplaces should be inspected and cleaned before use. Candles should be placed away from decorations and never left unattended. Better yet, use false flame candles, as they are pet-safe. Overloaded electrical outlets and extension cords are another common source of holiday fires.
Practice food safety. Cooking for a crowd requires careful planning. Cold foods should remain refrigerated until serving, meats should be cooked to safe temperatures, and leftovers should be stored promptly. Following the “two-hour rule”—placing food back in the refrigerator after two hours—reduces the risk of illness.
Prepare for minor accidents. A simple first aid kit stocked with bandages, pain relievers, and ice packs ensures quick response to small mishaps that can occur when hosting a crowd.
Road Trip Readiness
For many, the holidays involve traveling to visit family or vacation destinations. Preparing vehicles in advance reduces the risk of breakdowns or emergencies on the road.
Routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire pressure checks, and fluid top-offs are essential. Batteries should also be tested to prevent unexpected failures.
Emergency kits should include blankets, flashlights, bottled water, snacks, jumper cables, and phone chargers. These small items can provide critical support if weather delays or roadside emergencies occur.
Travel documents—including identification, reservations, and insurance cards—should be kept together in an easy-to-access location. Families traveling with children should also pack comfort items to make the journey smoother.
Pets need preparation too. Whether left in the care of a sitter, boarding facility, or trusted friend, arrangements should be made well in advance, as December is a peak time for pet services.
Protecting the Digital Home
Safety in today’s world extends beyond physical spaces into the digital realm.
Be mindful online. Posting vacation details in real time on social media can alert others that a home is vacant. Consider sharing photos and stories after returning.
Update passwords. Strengthening account security, especially for financial or home monitoring apps, adds an extra layer of protection. Two-factor authentication is highly recommended.
Avoid risky Wi-Fi use. Public Wi-Fi networks should not be used for sensitive transactions such as online banking. Virtual private networks (VPNs) are an inexpensive way to secure connections while traveling.
The Gift of Peace of Mind
The holiday season is meant for joy, connection, and creating lasting memories. A little extra effort before leaving the house or welcoming guests ensures that families can celebrate without added stress.
Taking steps to secure homes, prepare vehicles, and protect digital information allows residents to focus on what matters most. Whether celebrating in Prince William, Manassas, or Manassas Park, or traveling beyond, the gift of peace of mind makes the holidays brighter for everyone.
Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living magazine and Brides & Weddings magazine. She is a lifelong resident of Prince William and a volunteer with OWL VFD. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her blended family, being a Grandma, visiting Walt Disney World, reading, and sleeping.