Christmas in Malaga means illuminated streets, family gatherings and plenty of celebrations. While you enjoy the festive atmosphere in the city centre, Christmas markets or dinners at friends’ houses, it is important not to forget about basic home security. An empty home can become an easy target, but a few simple habits are enough to make sure your only concern is enjoying the holidays.
What the burglary data tells us
Even though overall crime figures show a moderate improvement, prevention is still essential. According to the latest Crime Report from the Spanish Ministry of the Interior, burglaries in homes in Spain have fallen in recent quarters, but regions such as Andalusia remain among the areas with the highest number of incidents. This makes it especially important to reinforce security during high risk periods like Christmas.
The Spanish Union of Insurance and Reinsurance Companies (UNESPA) has also highlighted in its reports that holiday periods such as Christmas and summer are critical moments for home burglaries. When many homes are empty for hours or days, opportunities for thieves increase.
Basic tips to secure your home in malaga
You do not need a huge budget to improve your security. The key is prevention and applying common sense, following the recommendations shared by public authorities and security experts in Spain.
Check your locks and entry points
Before going out to see the Christmas lights in calle Larios or to a company dinner, make sure all doors and windows are properly locked. Pay special attention to ground floors, terraces and inner patios, as they are usually the most vulnerable access points. A lock in good condition is your first line of defence, so if you notice any problem, plan to replace or repair it as soon as possible.
Use lighting to your advantage
A home in complete darkness for many hours clearly suggests that nobody is inside. If you are going out, leave a light on, use timers to switch lights on and off in different rooms or rely on basic smart home devices. Good lighting at the main entrance, garden or terrace has a strong deterrent effect and makes it harder for intruders to act unnoticed.
Be careful with social media
Avoid announcing your travel plans or long absences on social media. Posting that you are on holiday in real time is like giving away a piece of very valuable information to potential burglars. Wait until you are back home to share photos of your Christmas trip. Protecting your online privacy also helps protect your physical home.
Keep gifts and valuables out of sight
Putting Christmas presents under the tree is a lovely tradition, but if the tree is visible from the street you might be showing a tempting display. Try to keep valuable items and electronic devices out of direct view from windows and balconies. The less information a stranger can gather from outside, the better.
Stay in touch with trusted neighbours
If you have a good relationship with your neighbours, let them know when you will be away. They can help by collecting your mail so it does not pile up in the letterbox and by calling the police if they notice anything suspicious. A building or community where neighbours look out for each other is always a safer place.
Final thoughts
Enjoying a safe Christmas in Malaga is perfectly possible with a few simple habits. By following these basic tips, supported by official crime data and security recommendations, you reduce the risk of unpleasant surprises and gain peace of mind during the holidays. Prevention is not about fear, it is about taking responsible care of your home and your family.