The holiday season is full of all that is bright and festive, and homeowners across the country empty their attics and garages of decorations to display on the windows, doors, lawns, and porches. It can take hours to decorate, depending on how elaborate you make your holiday display. Regardless of how much you put into your exterior decor, no one wants to deal with theft during the holiday seasons. Here are the top 5 ways you can prevent your decorations from being stolen this holiday season:

1. Opt for simple displays. The more over-the-top you are with your decor, the more appealing your home becomes to potential thieves. Instead, choose simple, smaller models of your favorite holiday symbols. If you’re placing them on your porch, use zip ties to affix them to railings or the wooden slats of the porch to deter decorations from being toyed with.
2. Use smart placement. When you’re arranging your holiday decor outdoors, place them as close to your front door or windows as possible. If you can see the decorations from inside your home, you’ll also be able to see someone approaching the decorations. The closer your decorations are to your windows and doors, the less likely thieves are to approach them and try stealing or damaging them.
3. Bring your decor inside if possible. While it may seem impractical to bring your decor in each night, it’s a security measure that will ensure nothing gets stolen. If you’re going to take this precaution, keep your outdoor decor simple. Depending on the neighborhood you live in, you might be able to get away with only bringing your decor in on weekends, when folks tend to stay out later into the night and cause mischief.
4. Install a security system. It doesn’t have to be an over-the-top system that includes all of the bells and whistles. A simple motion sensor will do. Motion sensors can be your best friend during the holiday season. Opt for security lights with motion sensors that will illuminate your entire yard. Should thieves or vandals try approaching your decor under the cover of darkness, your yard will light up and deter people from taking anything for fear of being seen.
5. Work together. If you and your neighbors spend the time decorating your homes for the holidays, do your part and keep watch of your neighbors’ things. If you notice something missing, inform your neighbor right away. Working together as a team will give you the strength in numbers you need. Should law enforcement need to become involved, you’ll have witnesses to testify on your behalf.

Keep the holiday cheer you spread on your property this season with these theft prevention tips, brought to you by Gasper, a Bucks County landscaping company.