Christmas home security

Home Security in the Holiday Season

The festive season is all about family, food, and celebration - but it’s also a time when homes can be more at risk. With travel plans, visiting guests, and gifts on display, theft and accidents are more common in December.

A few simple precautions, plus the right home insurance, can help you enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season.
Get a quote today to make sure your home is protected this festive season.

Understanding Home Security for the Holidays

Festive home security means protecting your home from seasonal risks - from theft to winter weather damage.

Reports show insurance claims rise at this time of year - up to 40% more thefts occur in winter, often when homes are full of gifts or left empty during holidays.

The good news is that small steps - and the right insurance - can go a long way in keeping your home secure.

Find out how 1st Central Home Insurance can protect what matters most.

Top Festive Security Tips

Protect Your Home While You’re Away

• Don’t post travel plans on social media.
• Use light timers so your home looks occupied.
• Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to collect your post or move bins.
• Lock every door, window, and side gate.

Keep Gifts and Valuables Out of Sight

• Avoid leaving presents under the tree where they’re visible.
• Close blinds and curtains when lights are on.
• Keep expensive items away from windows and doors.

Check Outdoor Security

• Install motion-sensor lights and test alarms or CCTV.
• Lock sheds, garages, and outbuildings.
• Store ladders and tools securely to prevent access.

Fire & Electrical Safety

• Switch off fairy lights overnight or when you go out.
• Avoid overloading plug sockets or using damaged cables.
• Keep candles and decorations away from flames and heaters.

Deliveries & Online Orders

• Use secure delivery or collection points.
• Don’t leave parcels in open porches or visible from the street.

Winter Home Security Beyond Theft

Cold weather can cause just as many problems as unwanted visitors.

Here’s how to prepare:

• Check your roof and gutters for loose tiles or blockages.
• Leave heating on low in freezing conditions to reduce the risk of damage.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly.

Our optional extras are there to help if something unexpected happens, but they must have been added to your policy at initial purchase or renewal.
With Home Emergency Cover, you’ll get support with sudden problems like plumbing or electrical emergencies, roof damage, or blocked drains - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, this cannot be added to your policy mid-term, so it’s best to make sure you have all the coverage you might need when taking out your initial policy.

For extra peace of mind, Full Accidental Damage can be added to your cover for life’s little mishaps, like spilled drinks on carpets or cracked fixtures.

Please note, our policies don’t cover external frozen pipes, so prevention is key. A few small checks now can save a lot of hassle later. Check your policy documentation for more information on frozen pipe coverage.

Make Sure You’re Insured This Holiday Season

Even the most careful homeowners can face the unexpected. That’s why having the right 1st Central Home Insurance matters - so you’re covered day and night, all year round.

You’ll be protected against:

• Theft and attempted burglary from your home.
• Fire, flood, and storm damage.
• Accidental damage - with some exclusions.

Make sure to check the coverage of your specific policy to understand what is included.

Get a home insurance quote now.

Enjoy a Safe and Secure Festive Period

A little preparation goes a long way. With good habits and reliable cover, you can relax knowing your home, gifts, and loved ones are protected.

At 1st Central, we’re here to help you stay safe and insured - this festive season and every day after.
Get a home insurance quote today.

FAQs

• Do burglaries increase over the holidays?

Yes. Research shows break-ins rise by up to 40% during winter, when homes are often left empty or full of gifts.

• Does home insurance cover theft over the festive period?

Yes. Most home insurance policies, including 1st Central’s, cover theft and attempted theft year-round - 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

• Are gifts covered under my home insurance policy?

Yes. Gifts of jewellery or other valuables  kept inside your home are covered under contents insurance up to a maximum of £1,500. For presents you take out with you - like jewellery, phones, or other valuables -Personal Possessions Cover keeps them protected anywhere in the UK.

• Can I get help with winter emergencies?

Yes. Our Home Emergency Cover provides 24/7 help with urgent problems such as electrical emergencies, plumbing issues, or roof damage - so you’re never left in the cold.