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December 2004 (Newstream) -- The holidays are a time filled with expensive presents, traveling - and burglaries! Burglaries rise during the holidays because there's more perceived loot and people leave their home unattended to visit loved ones. Here's how to keep your valuables safe while you're away from your home this holiday season.

Experts say the key is to make it look like you're home for the holidays, even if you're not. Among the tips they offer are:
Stop mail and newspaper deliveries

Have neighbors check for packages or flyers that might be delivered on your doorstep

Have lights that come on and go off at the times when you would normally have them come on and go off

Keep blinds and curtains open if they're usually open, but don't leave any valuables in plain sight

Put possessions like heirlooms and jewelry in a safe deposit box

Install motion detectors outside to help scare off burglars

Trim back shrubs or anything criminals can climb on to make it as difficult as possible for burglars to get in your home

Make sure that you lock your doors and close all of your windows

Don't leave keys in places someone would think to look to access your home

And when the holidays are over, you still need to prevent making your house a burglary target. Avoid leaving the boxes from your gifts on the curb, particularly boxes from big-ticket items like electronics. Leaving these on the curb advertises new purchases inside your home.

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Produced for Allstate

CONTACT:

Scott Michaeloff, 212-812-7171

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