Riskmas time, mistletoe and crime
Laptops, consoles and cameras were top of the burglars' Christmas list last year as criminals cashed in on empty homes and newly-bought presents.
New Year's Eve is the season's worst day for burglary according to ten years-worth of claims data from Aviva. Homes are 22% more likely to be broken into on December 31st than on an average day.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day meanwhile, have one of the lowest crime rates of the year - even criminals have a holiday it seems! But if you're unlucky enough to be targeted on December 24 or 25th the value of belongings taken are higher than normal - at around £1600 on average.
But remember Aviva automatically increases home contents cover by an extra £3000 over the Christmas period, just make sure your sum insured is up to date in January to take into account all those new belongings you've gained.
Rob Townend, director of property claims, at Aviva said: "Our homes are jam-packed with plenty of expensive gadgets and glamorous gifts at this time of year and of course that means rich pickings for any opportunist thief who might be wandering down your road.
"So while you may be very proud of those perfectly-wrapped presents keep them out of site from the outside world - ideally lock them away somewhere safe and sound, that way they are also safe from children's prying eyes!
"And remember if you are out and about on New Year's Eve don't forget basic security measures otherwise you might find someone else will be enjoying all your new gifts."
Sparks Flying
While you are least likely to be burgled on Christmas Day homeowners themselves need to be careful with the candles and cooking - December 25th is the worst day of the year for fires in the home, with claims soaring by 140%. Christmas tree lights plus dry tinsel and wrapping paper also contribute to the rise.
Aviva's tips to a safe and happy Christmas:
Don't make your home look like a shop window to tempt burglars by leaving presents under the tree - try to keep them out of sight until the big day
Attics and lofts are a good hiding place for presents and it's usually too much effort for the average burglar to look that hard for items to steal, plus they'll be far away from the wandering eyes and hands of excited children
Ensure all gift packaging is as unidentifiable as possible when you throw it out. It's easy to just dump new TV or iPod boxes in or near your outside bin but it's a beacon of advertising to opportunistic burglars
When it comes to New Year's Eve, double check the home security before you leave. Ensure all doors, windows, sheds and garages are locked securely and spare keys are well out of view
Leave lights and the TV or radio on if you're out and about over Christmas so burglars think you're home
Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked and spare sets of keys aren't on display or near to your front door - this will prevent burglars using the hook and cane method through your letterbox
Be neighbourly - keeping an eye out for suspicious behaviour and alerting the police is a charitable thing to do and could mean you prevent a miserable Christmas or New Year for your neighbour