Post-Christmas Safety Tip: Don’t Advertise Your New Gifts at the Curb
The holidays are over, the wrapping paper is gone, and the house is finally quiet. As you start your post-Christmas cleanup, there’s one easy-to-miss step that can help keep your home safer: think twice before putting empty boxes for expensive items out at the curb.
Why it matters
Big, branded boxes—TVs, gaming consoles, laptops, smart home devices—can act like a billboard for thieves. When those boxes are visible on trash day, they can signal that high-value items are now inside your home, making your property a more attractive target.
Simple ways to reduce risk
You don’t need to be paranoid—just a little mindful. Here are a few easy precautions:
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Break boxes down completely. Flatten them so logos and product images aren’t visible.
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Hide or cover packaging. Place broken-down boxes inside opaque trash bags or under other recycling.
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Stagger disposal. If possible, don’t put everything out at once—spread it over multiple collection days.
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Use recycling centers. Taking large boxes directly to a recycling facility keeps them off the curb entirely.
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Coordinate with neighbors. Especially after the holidays, a quick heads-up can help everyone be more aware on trash day.
A small habit with big impact
Most burglaries are crimes of opportunity. Reducing visible clues about what’s inside your home can help lower that risk. As you enjoy your new gifts, make smart choices about what you leave outside—because the best kind of holiday cheer is peace of mind.
Here’s to a safe, happy, and clutter-free start to the new year.