The holidays are meant to be enjoyed, not stressed over. But with more travel, visitors, deliveries, decorations, and cooking, it’s also a time when small oversights can turn into real problems. That’s where a few well-timed holiday safety tips can make a difference.
Whether you’re heading out of town, hosting family at home, or juggling both, knowing what to watch for helps you reduce risks without overthinking every detail. This guide focuses on simple, realistic steps you can take to keep your home, travel plans, and health on track throughout the season.
Home Security Tips to Prevent Break-ins and Theft
The holidays change your routine. You may be out shopping more, visiting family, or traveling for a few days. All of that can leave your home empty, and break-ins tend to increase this time of year. That’s why basic security measures matter during the holiday season.
Lock the obvious places every time
It sounds simple, but it works.
- Lock all exterior doors and windows, even if you’re leaving for a short trip to the store. Unlocked entry points are still one of the easiest ways people get inside.
- Secure sliding doors and ground-level windows. A basic stopper or blocker can prevent someone from forcing them open.
- Close the garage door fully and lock the door between the garage and the house. Treat that interior door like an outside entrance.
Make your home look lived-in
A home that looks active is less appealing to someone looking for an easy target.
- Use smart lights or smart plugs with timers to turn lights on and off automatically, so your home doesn’t sit dark all night.
- Keep outdoor areas well-lit and remove places where someone could hide.
- Trim shrubs and bushes near doors and windows to improve visibility.
Avoid signaling that no one is home
- If you’re traveling, pause your mail so it doesn’t pile up. A full mailbox can quickly draw attention. You can place a temporary hold for 3–30 days through USPS.
- Track package deliveries and bring boxes inside as soon as possible. If you’ll be gone, have someone pick them up.
- Be mindful of what you share online. Posting travel plans publicly can unintentionally advertise that your home is empty.
Install security cameras to deter intruders and stay aware
Visible security cameras can act as a strong deterrent on their own. They make potential intruders think twice before approaching. Today’s cameras let you see what’s happening in real time, even when you’re away, and provide clear footage if something does go wrong.
You can place outdoor cameras to watch areas like the driveway, porch, or side gate, and use indoor cameras to cover key rooms. During the holidays, motion alerts go straight to your phone, letting you check live feed and react before a situation escalates.
For outdoor coverage, the eufyCam S4 combines a fixed 4K “bullet” view (130°) with a dual-2K PTZ unit that pans 360°, auto-frames, and tracks motion, so you don’t have to choose between wide coverage and close detail.
Bullet-to-PTZ tracking keeps the wide view steady while the PTZ follows a person through the scene. It can zoom in to capture details from up to 164 ft away. On-device AI can tag people, vehicles, and pets, helping you decide whether an alert matters.
The camera uses radar and PIR motion detection, which helps reduce alerts caused by shadows or weather. Built-in LED spotlights support color night vision, and warning lights paired with a 105 dB siren can help discourage unwanted activity.
Power stays flexible with a detachable solar panel and a 10,000 mAh battery that can swap between battery and plug-in use. Video is stored locally on 16 GB eMMC, expandable up to 16 TB with a hard drive when paired with the HomeBase™ S380, which also enables cross-camera tracking and 24/7 snapshots.
Inside your home, the eufy Indoor Cam S350 helps you check what’s happening without relying on a single angle. It uses two cameras working together: a 4K wide-angle lens for full-room coverage and a 2K telephoto lens for close-ups. This dual setup supports up to 8× hybrid zoom, so you can zoom in on doors, hallways, or specific areas while still keeping the rest of the room in view.
The camera pans and tilts to provide 360° coverage, which helps reduce blind spots in open spaces. At night, an f/1.6 aperture sensor and adaptive infrared lighting help capture clear images up to 32 feet away. AI tracking keeps people or pets centered in the frame as they move. It can also connect to HomeBase™ S380 for a more unified home setup.
Add a video doorbell to manage visitors and deliveries
The front door gets busier during the holidays. More guests. More packages. A video doorbell helps you see and talk to who’s there without opening the door and check deliveries before they disappear. Packages left at the door are prime targets for porch thieves. The right setup makes it easier to stay aware, even when you’re not home.
The eufy Video Doorbell E340 focuses on both people and packages by using two cameras. The main front-facing camera captures visitors in 2K resolution, while a second downward-facing camera watches the ground where deliveries are placed. This extra view helps you confirm drop-offs quickly and notice if a package is moved.
The doorbell supports color night vision with a dual-light system, making it easier to recognize faces and objects after dark, with visibility up to about 16 feet. Two-way audio lets you speak to visitors in real time, and quick replies help when you can’t answer immediately. AI detection identifies people, packages, and familiar faces, so alerts feel more relevant.
You can power it with a detachable rechargeable battery or hardwire it. Video is stored locally on 8 GB eMMC, which can hold around 90 days of footage under typical use, with no required subscription. It also works with Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to check the door hands-free.
Reduce quick, easy theft
- Keep gifts, electronics, and handbags out of view from windows.
- Store ladders, tools, and spare equipment indoors. Left outside, they can make access easier.
Indoor Fire and Decoration Safety
Decorations, lights, and candles add warmth fast, but they also add ignition sources. U.S. fire departments respond to hundreds of home structure fires each year that start with decorations, so it’s worth setting a few house rules before you plug anything in.
Start with alarms and a clear path out
Test smoke alarms before decorating. Make sure exits are not blocked by trees, cords, or stacked gifts. Talk through a simple fire escape plan so everyone knows what to do if something goes wrong.
Tree safety for the holidays matters more than you think
Choose a fresh tree and water it every day. Dry needles burn much faster. Keep the tree away from fireplaces, heaters, vents, radiators, and candles. Don’t let it block doorways or walkways.
Take the tree down once it starts drying out. A dry tree can ignite and spread fire very quickly.
Pay close attention to lights and cords
- Inspect every string of lights before use. Don’t use sets with frayed wires, loose plugs, or cracked sockets.
- Use lights designed for indoor use inside, and outdoor-rated lights outdoors. Secure outdoor cords so wind or moisture doesn’t damage them.
- Avoid overloading extension cords. Plugging in too many light sets increases heat and fire risk.
- Turn off decorative lights when you leave the house or go to sleep.
Use candles with clear boundaries
Keep candles at least 12 inches away from anything that can burn, including curtains, decorations, and wrapping paper. Never place lit candles near a tree, greenery, or garlands.
Place candles on stable surfaces where they won’t tip and blow them out before leaving the room or going to bed. Whenever possible, choose flameless candles instead.
Fireplaces and fast-burning clutter
Clear the area around the fireplace before lighting a fire. Remove decorations, wrapping paper, and greenery. Always use a fireplace screen while a fire is burning and never burn gift wrap in the fireplace. It can flare up suddenly and burn intensely.
Make decorations safer for kids and pets
If children or pets are around, avoid decorations with sharp edges, breakable parts, or small pieces at floor level. Store matches and lighters well out of reach.
Be cautious in the kitchen
Baking cookies, roasting meals, or boiling mulled cider all increase the risk of burns. Keep pot handles turned inward, secure tablecloths to avoid pulling, and don’t leave ovens or stoves unattended.
Travel Safety Tips for Holiday
Holiday trips feel easier when you plan for the basics. Travel days are busy, weather can change fast, and small delays add up. A few simple habits can help you stay calm and in control from start to finish.
Get ready before you leave
- Make sure your ID is valid and easy to reach. Airports require accepted identification, such as a REAL ID or passport, at security checkpoints.
- Build in extra time. Holiday crowds and winter storms can slow everything down. Rushing increases stress and mistakes.
- Pack essentials in your personal item. Medications, chargers, and one change of clothes should stay with you in case bags are delayed.
Airport and flight tips that actually help
- Follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-ons. Liquids and gels must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less, placed in one quart-size bag.
- Avoid wrapping gifts before flying. Security may need to open them. Gift bags or wrapping later is easier.
- Clean your hands often. Airports and planes involve shared surfaces. Wash your hands when you can or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
Stay alert in crowded areas
Crowded spaces are common during the holidays, and they can be distracting. Keep bags zipped and close to your body, especially in lines and on public transportation.
Be cautious with phones and wallets when people are bumping into each other. Watch for distraction tactics, such as someone asking for help while another person reaches for your belongings.
If you’re driving, respect winter conditions
- Slow down. Snow, ice, and rain reduce traction and increase stopping distance.
- Leave more space between vehicles so you can brake smoothly.
- Prep your car before you go. Check tires, lights, wipers, and washer fluid. Pack an emergency kit with a blanket, flashlight, water, phone charger, and basic supplies.
Hotel and rental safety basics
- Keep valuables secured. Store passports, cash, and cards out of sight or with you.
- Use door locks and deadbolts whenever you’re inside the room.
- Stay aware in parking areas and lobbies.These busy spaces are common spots for distraction theft.
Travel with health in mind
If you’re feeling sick, consider postponing travel when possible. If you do travel, stick to the basics: wash hands often, cover coughs, and consider masking in crowded indoor spaces—especially if you or someone you’re visiting is at higher risk.
Health and Food Safety Tips During Holiday Season
Holiday gatherings bring people together around shared meals. That’s part of the fun. A little planning helps keep everyone feeling good long after the plates are cleared.
Reduce the spread of illness
- Get your flu shot if you haven’t already. It helps lower the risk of flu and serious complications.
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, especially before handling food. When that’s not possible, use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol or more.
- Protect higher-risk guests. Older adults, pregnant guests, and people with chronic or weakened immune systems may benefit from better ventilation, spacing, or added precautions in crowded indoor settings.
Keep food out of the danger zone
Bacteria grow fastest between 40°F and 140°F.
- Don’t leave perishable food out for more than 2 hours, or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90°F.
- Keep hot foods hot (at or above 140°F) and cold foods cold by using warming trays, slow cookers, or ice.
- Serve smaller portions and refill dishes as needed instead of letting food sit out.
Cook food to safe temperatures
- Poultry, including turkey and stuffing cooked inside the bird, should reach 165°F.
- Check the thickest parts of the breast, thigh, wing, and the center of the stuffing using a food thermometer.
Handle leftovers the right way
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly. Stick to the same 2-hour (or 1-hour) rule for food left out.
- Store food in shallow containers so it cools quickly and evenly.
- Eat or freeze leftovers within 4 days to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.
Conclusion
The holidays don’t have to be stressful to be safe. A few thoughtful choices can make a real difference. By following these holiday safety tips, you can reduce common risks at home, while traveling, and during gatherings with family and friends. Stay aware, plan ahead, and focus on simple habits that protect your space, your health, and your time. When safety feels manageable, it’s easier to relax and enjoy the season the way it’s meant to be.
FAQs
What are holiday safety tips?
Holiday safety mostly comes down to a few smart habits. Check string lights for frayed wires, avoid overloading outlets, and switch decorations off before bed or when you head out. Keep real trees watered and away from heaters or fireplaces. Choose flameless candles when possible and never leave real ones burning unattended. If you’re traveling, unplug high-heat appliances, securing your home with smart cameras, and ask someone you trust to check on your home.
Are there any safety tips for holiday cooking?
For holiday cooking, the #1 rule is: stay with your food. If you leave the kitchen—even briefly—turn the burner off. Keep towels, oven mitts, packaging, and other combustibles at least 3 feet from the cooktop, and turn pot handles inward. Have a lid or baking sheet nearby to smother a small grease flare-up and keep kids and pets out of the cooking zone. Always have a working smoke detector in your kitchen.
How can I keep my home safe from burglars during the holidays?
To keep your home safer from burglars during the holidays, make it look occupied and hard to enter. Lock all doors, windows, and the garage every time you leave. Use timers to turn lights on and off and keep gifts out of sight from windows. If you’ll be away, ask a neighbor to collect mail and packages or place a temporary mail hold. Motion-activated lights, visible security cameras and video doorbells, and a monitored alarm system can further discourage break-ins and give you extra peace of mind.
