Be cautious with social media while traveling for the holidays

Living in rural Nebraska has its advantages. Small communities, engaged neighbors, and caring law enforcement with personal connections create an environment where residents rarely worry about burglaries. Yet, even in such safe surroundings, common sense is a necessity.

Nebraska’s burglary rate is relatively moderate compared to other states. In 2018, the state reported a burglary rate of 271.92 per 100,000 population, a 19.94% decline from 2017. However, these numbers don’t mean residents can afford to be complacent, especially with the rise of online oversharing.

Millions of Americans will soon be traveling for the holidays, leaving their homes temporarily vacant. Unfortunately, many will make their absence obvious to potential burglars through careless social media posts. From selfies at the airport to family photos a thousand miles away, these posts broadcast a clear message: “My house is empty.”

Worse yet, some criminals scour funeral announcements to target homes while families attend services. The holiday season should be a time of joy, not an opportunity for opportunistic thieves. To minimize risk, consider these practical precautions:

First, resist the urge to share travel plans online. Security experts consistently warn against announcing your absence on social media. While sharing festive updates might seem harmless, it can provide a road map for burglars. Instead, wait until you return to post vacation highlights.

Second, make your home appear occupied. Arrange for a neighbor or friend to collect mail and newspapers or have delivery services temporarily halted. A pile of unread papers or an overflowing mailbox is a dead giveaway that no one is home.

Third, keep valuables out of sight. Avoid placing expensive electronics or gifts where they are visible through windows. After unwrapping presents, breakdown boxes before discarding them at the curb to prevent advertising new purchases.

Additionally, avoid hiding spare keys outside, even in seemingly clever locations. Experienced burglars know to check under mats, in planters, or atop doorframes. Instead, entrust a key to someone you trust.

Finally, consider small investments in home security. Timed lights, motion detectors, and doorbell cameras can create the illusion of activity and deter potential intruders.

By adopting these measures, residents can reduce the risk of becoming targets while away. Rural Nebraska may feel far removed from big-city crime, but vigilance is always wise. The holidays should be a time to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories, not to recover from preventable theft. Keeping safety in mind ensures that the season remains as joyful as it is meant to be.