How to Prevent Break-Ins During the Holiday Shopping Season 2025
The holiday season brings joy, generosity, and more online shopping than any other time of year. But it also brings risk. As Canadians receive more packages, travel more often, and get caught up in the festivities, criminals see opportunity. Break-ins, porch piracy, and theft from homes rise sharply. This November, make security a priority, not an afterthought.
What the Data Tells Us
- A FedEx survey conducted in December 2024 found that about 1 in 10 Canadians (10%) had a package stolen in the past year.
- Meanwhile, 23% of Canadians report having been victims of porch piracy at some point in their lives, with an average stolen item valued at roughly CAD $113.
- In 2024, Statistics Canada reported 182,361 incidents of shoplifting (theft under $5,000) up 14% from 2023.
- Another significant trend: seasonal properties (cottages, second homes) saw break-ins increase in Alberta by 8% in 2024, per RCMP.
Theft during the holidays isn’t rare, and many Canadians are already being affected. Alarm Guard’s smart security systems offer protection that matters when you need it most.
Why Break-Ins Rise During the Holidays
Understanding what makes this season more vulnerable can help you plan more strategically.
| Trigger | What Happens |
| Busy schedules | People are shopping, hosting guests, travelling, and juggling many tasks; security lapses (unlocked doors and open windows) are more likely. |
| Multiple deliveries | Lots of packages piled on doorsteps, curbs, and porches make for easy targets. |
| Homes unattended | Trips to see family, holiday vacations, visiting friends, routers go off, lights don’t turn on, and opportunistic criminals take notice. |
| Overlooked security | With so much to do, small security tasks (locking side or basement doors, securing the garage, putting away ladders) get forgotten. |
How Alarm Guard Helps You Stay Ahead
Here are powerful, practical ways to protect your home this holiday season, with Alarm Guard’s systems, products, and services:
- Smart Cameras & Video Doorbells
- Receive alerts when someone approaches your front door or driveway.
- Use two-way audio to communicate with delivery people or intercept suspicious behaviour.
- Saved footage acts as evidence in case of theft.
- Motion-Activated Exterior Lighting
- Motion sensors trigger lights in dark corners, driveways, or porches, deterring burglars.
- Lights tied into security systems often dissuade criminals before they attempt forced entry.
- Professional Monitoring & Alarm Systems
- If something triggers a sensor while you’re out, Alarm Guard’s monitoring centre gets alerted immediately.
- Police or emergency responders can be notified, even if you’re away or asleep.
- Secure Package Delivery Options
- Ask for a signature required or hold for pickup.
- Use parcel lockers or have packages delivered to a trusted neighbour.
- Set delivery alerts so you know exactly when something arrives.
- Lock All Access Points Every Single Time
- Doors, windows, garages, sheds, and even side or basement doors are entry points.
- Secure sliding doors with rods or braces.
- Make sure locks are solid and in good repair.
- Be Careful What You Share Online
- Avoid posting that you’re travelling or out of town in real-time.
- Automated lights or security camera registries can help maintain the appearance that someone is home.
Holiday Security Checklist
Here’s a quick checklist to help protect your home this season:
- Test all door/window sensors and cameras
- Activate smart locks and set auto-lock features
- Set up motion lighting on dark or little-used entrances
- Arrange monitored alarm service with 24/7 response
- Plan your deliveries (signatures, pickup, or trusted address)
- Have a neighbour or friend monitor your home if you travel
Holidays are meant for peace, joy, and time with loved ones. But without planning, even one lapse in security can turn the season upside down. The good news is, with smart systems, professional monitoring, and attention to detail, you can protect your home and still enjoy the festivities.Ready for holiday peace of mind?
Call Alarm Guard today at 1-866-282-3331 to secure your home with our full line of smart systems and 24/7 monitoring. Don’t wait until it’s too late. visit Instagram Profile here.
