Holiday Season Security: Preventing Break-Ins in December and New Year's
Burglaries spike during the holidays. Here's how Miami homeowners can protect their homes — especially while traveling — during December and New Year's.
· 5 min read · Residential
The holiday season is the most active period for residential burglaries in the United States. The combination of homes left empty for travel, visible packages and gifts, and reduced neighborhood vigilance creates ideal conditions for property crime.
Miami sees its own version of this pattern — with a large seasonal population that travels during the holidays and a significant short-term rental market that experiences high turnover during December.
Why Holiday Burglaries Are More Common
Several factors converge during the holiday season: - More homes are left unoccupied for multi-day periods - Social media posts and travel itineraries advertise absences - Package deliveries on porches signal activity and valuables - Shorter daylight hours in December create more cover for night entry - Neighbors are also more likely to be traveling or distracted
Before You Leave
Secure all entry points. Every exterior door should have a functioning Grade 1 deadbolt and a reinforced strike plate. Sliding doors need secondary locks in the track. Windows at ground level should be locked and, if possible, have window alarms.
Don't advertise your absence. Avoid posting travel photos to social media until you return. Ask a trusted neighbor to collect mail, packages, and newspapers. Put interior lights on timers or smart plugs.
Ask someone to check in. A neighbor, friend, or property manager who visits the property every 1–2 days during your absence is the single most effective deterrent against prolonged intrusions.
Smart lock access for checking. If a neighbor or property manager is checking your home, a smart lock with a temporary access code is more secure than leaving a physical key — and you can verify access remotely.
While You're Away
Remote monitoring: Many smart locks, cameras, and alarm systems allow you to monitor your home remotely. Schlage Encode, Ring cameras, and Nest products all send alerts to your phone when activity is detected.
Lights and automation: Smart plugs on lights and even TVs create the impression of occupancy. Some systems (Google Home, Alexa) have "away mode" routines that randomize light schedules for more convincing simulation.
Outdoor lighting: Motion-activated floodlights are effective deterrents. Burglars avoid well-lit entry points.
Miami-Specific Tips
- Vacation rental guests: If your home is rented during the holidays, ensure your smart lock codes expire immediately at checkout and your cameras monitor common areas and entry points.
- Hurricane shutters: Closed hurricane shutters can obscure window entry but also make it harder to detect signs of attempted intrusion from outside.
- Garage doors: An unlocked garage is one of the most common entry points. Use a garage door monitor that alerts you if the door is left open.
When You Return
If you notice signs of attempted or successful entry — damaged locks, forced door frames, disturbed windows — call police before entering the property. Document everything photographically before touching anything.
Caraballo Locksmith provides emergency rekeying and lock repair after break-ins across Miami-Dade. We respond 24/7 and can secure your property the same day.
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