Make It A Safe Holiday Season

In early September, I started the Austin Police Department’s Citizen’s Academy. My hopes were to learn a bit more about the folks that look after us every day and perhaps a bit more about my father; who spent his career in law enforcement. With only four classes left, I can honestly say we are so very lucky to live in Central Texas where we have such an amazing group of first responders.  Because the holiday season tends to bring an uptick in package theft and home burglaries, I want to offer a few tips shared by professionals through our weekly classes at APD.

• • Go meet your neighbors! Specifically those directly to your left, your right and directly across the street. As a Realtor, I’m often surprised just how many people have never met their neighbors.
  • Have your online orders delivered to a kiosk rather than you front door. Delivery package theft has been on the rise the last few years and opting for kiosk delivery is a safe way to ensure your gifts actually make it to your loved ones.
  • Install motion sensor flood lights. Most package thieves and burglars do not want attention and will shy away from anything that “shines a light” on their activities. Better yet, invest in flood-lights that double as cameras so you can share the images of those up to no good with your police department.
  • Install Austin 3-1-1 app on your phone and request a safety walk with a member of APD to learn how you can better secure your home!

Have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving and always remember to call me with any and all real estate questions and needs!