Holiday decorations, busy schedules, and settling into a new space can create unexpected safety challenges for recent movers. Protecting your new home during the festive season requires a blend of preparation, awareness, and smart habits—especially when you’re still getting used to the neighborhood and your home’s unique quirks.
- Why the Holiday Season Requires Extra Safety Steps
- Secure Your Home Right After Moving In
- Holiday-Specific Home Safety Tips
- Packing, Unpacking, and Holiday Distractions
- Meeting Neighbors and Building Community Awareness
- First-Week Holiday Safety Checklist
- FAQ: Holiday Home Safety After a Move
- Summary and Next Steps
Why the Holiday Season Requires Extra Safety Steps
The holiday season is a time of celebration, but it also brings unique risks—especially if you’ve just moved. Increased deliveries, unfamiliar routines, and the distraction of unpacking can make your home more vulnerable to accidents and break-ins. As a moving professional, I’ve seen new homeowners and renters overlook simple safety measures in the rush to settle in and decorate for the holidays.
- Burglary rates often rise during the holidays due to travel and extra packages.
- Decorations and electrical cords can create tripping or fire hazards.
- Busy schedules mean doors and windows may be left unlocked or packages unattended.
Secure Your Home Right After Moving In
Before you get caught up in holiday festivities, take these essential steps to secure your new home:
Change the Locks and Update Security Codes
Previous owners, tenants, or contractors may still have keys or access codes. Schedule a locksmith visit as soon as you move in, and update any garage or security system codes. This is a small investment that brings peace of mind.
Check Doors, Windows, and Entry Points
Inspect all doors and windows for proper locks and secure closures. Don’t forget basement, attic, and sliding patio doors. If you notice any weak spots, reinforce them right away—especially before hanging holiday lights or wreaths that may draw attention to your home.
Set Up or Reactivate a Security System
If your new home came with a security system, contact the provider to reactivate it and update your contact information. If not, consider installing a basic DIY alarm or video doorbell. Many systems are easy to set up and can be monitored from your phone, which is helpful if you’re traveling during the holidays.
Holiday-Specific Home Safety Tips
Be Smart with Deliveries and Packages
Online shopping spikes during the holidays, and so does package theft. Use these strategies:
- Schedule deliveries for times when you’ll be home, or use secure lockers if available.
- Ask a trusted neighbor to collect packages if you’re away.
- Install a video doorbell or camera to deter porch pirates.
Safe Holiday Decorating
Decorating is fun, but it can introduce hazards if you’re not careful:
- Use only UL-listed lights and check cords for fraying before hanging them.
- Keep decorations away from heat sources, outlets, and walkways.
- Never overload electrical outlets—use surge protectors and avoid daisy-chaining extension cords.
- If you have children or pets, avoid small or breakable ornaments at ground level.
Fire Safety Precautions
With candles, cooking, and extra electrical use, fire risk increases during the holidays. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as soon as you move in. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know where it is. If you’re using a real tree, water it daily and keep it away from heat sources.
Packing, Unpacking, and Holiday Distractions
Moving during the holidays can make it harder to stay organized and safe. Here’s how to manage:
Unpack Essentials First
Focus on setting up bedrooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen before tackling holiday decorations. This ensures you have clear pathways and reduces the risk of tripping over boxes or supplies.
Keep Entryways and Exits Clear
Don’t let boxes or decorations block doors or hallways. In an emergency, you need a clear exit path. This is especially important if you’re still unpacking while hosting guests or family gatherings.
Manage Packing Materials
Break down and recycle boxes promptly. Packing paper and bubble wrap can pile up quickly and create fire or tripping hazards. If you’re using professional movers, ask if they offer debris removal services for an extra fee.
Meeting Neighbors and Building Community Awareness
Getting to know your neighbors isn’t just about feeling welcome—it’s a key part of home safety. During the holidays, neighborhoods often see more foot traffic and unfamiliar faces. A friendly introduction can help you and your neighbors look out for each other’s homes, especially if you’re traveling or expecting lots of deliveries.
- Attend a local holiday event or introduce yourself during a walk.
- Join a neighborhood social media group to stay informed about local activity.
- Share your contact info with a trusted neighbor in case of emergencies.
In my experience, new residents who connect with their neighbors quickly feel more secure and settle in faster—even during the busiest time of year.
First-Week Holiday Safety Checklist
- Change all exterior locks and update alarm codes
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Set up or reactivate a security system
- Inspect and secure all windows and doors
- Unpack essential rooms and keep pathways clear
- Safely dispose of packing materials
- Check holiday lights and decorations for safety
- Meet at least one neighbor and share contact info
- Plan for safe package deliveries
FAQ: Holiday Home Safety After a Move
How soon should I change the locks after moving in?
Change locks as soon as possible—ideally on move-in day or within the first week. This prevents unauthorized access from anyone with old keys.
What’s the safest way to handle holiday deliveries at a new address?
Use secure package lockers, require signatures, or ask a neighbor to collect packages. Consider a video doorbell for added security.
Are there extra fire risks when decorating right after a move?
Yes. Unfamiliar outlets, unpacked boxes, and new layouts can increase fire hazards. Always check decorations and keep exits clear.
Should I notify my home insurance provider after moving?
Yes, update your insurance right away to ensure your new home and belongings are covered, especially during the high-risk holiday season.
How can I meet neighbors if I’m busy unpacking?
Even a quick hello while walking the dog or checking the mail helps. Consider joining local online groups or attending a community event.
Summary and Next Steps
Keeping your new home safe during the holiday season is all about preparation, awareness, and community. By changing locks, setting up security, managing deliveries, and connecting with neighbors, you can enjoy a secure and festive start in your new space. Take these steps to protect your home and peace of mind—then focus on making happy holiday memories.
Ready to make your move even smoother? Compare free moving quotes on Quick Moving Quotes and find the best fit for your needs.