How to ensure security concerns don't rob you of joy this festive period

If you are like most Kenyan urban dwellers, you are probably preparing to travel upcountry and reunite with your loved ones for the December festivities. The festive season is a cherished tradition, marked by joy, togetherness, merrymaking, and shared meals. Yet, for many who leave their homes unattended, the season also brings a major concern: security.

Statistics show that crime rates in urban areas often spike during the festive season, with more break-ins when thieves take advantage of vacant homes and deserted neighbourhoods. The other day, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo noted that their analysis had over the years shown an increase in the number of criminal activities around the December festive period. He advised those planning to travel to make arrangements for someone to watch over their homes “since unattended homes present opportunities for burglars”.

But the good news is that with proper planning and collective effort, urban residents can protect their properties and enjoy a stress-free holiday.

One of the simplest yet most effective measures is working with neighbours. For instance, in one Nairobi estate last December, a group of residents created a “holiday watch” plan. Families paired up, each agreeing to monitor their partner’s home while they were away. By simply collecting mail, watering plants, and keeping a light on, they deterred potential criminals. No break-ins were reported in that neighbourhood, a testament to the power of community vigilance.

Resident associations can formalise such efforts by organising pre-holiday meetings. Encouraging members to communicate their travel plans to trusted neighbours fosters accountability and collective responsibility.

Physical deterrents are also crucial. CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and motion-sensor lights may sound like luxuries, but they have proved to be lifesavers. A 2023 study by a security lobby group found that homes with visible security systems were 60 per cent less likely to be targeted by thugs.

Take the case of a family in Eastlands who installed motion-sensor lights last year. When burglars attempted to break in, the sudden flood of light startled them, and they fled. These small but impactful investments can make all the difference.

Collaborating with local police to establish a holiday patrol schedule ensures professional oversight. Complementing the role of police by pooling resources to hire private security services will significantly reduce the likelihood of crime.

In the digital age, technology offers an added layer of protection. Smart home devices now allow homeowners to monitor their property remotely, while apps like WhatsApp and Telegram enable real-time communication within neighbourhoods.

One estate set up a WhatsApp group exclusively for security alerts. When a suspicious vehicle was spotted last December, a quick message on the group led to immediate action. The car, which turned out to belong to potential thieves, was intercepted by the community watch team. Resident associations can spearhead the adoption of such technology, ensuring every household stays informed and connected.

Prevention starts with education. A residents association in Nairobi took the initiative last year to organise a security awareness workshop before the holiday season. Attendees learned practical crime-prevention tips, such as spotting suspicious behaviour and reporting incidents promptly. The result? A safer community with residents who felt more confident about leaving their homes unattended.

While the festive season presents unique challenges, it’s also an opportunity for resident associations to strengthen their long-term security strategies. Successful holiday initiatives can form the foundation for year-round measures, such as establishing permanent neighbourhood watch programmes or investing in shared security infrastructure.

The festive season should be a time of joy and relaxation, not anxiety about what’s happening back home. This December, let’s make security everyone’s responsibility because when communities come together, even the boldest of burglars think twice.