Players such as Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals have reportedly faced home break-ins while traveling for games. These incidents highlight how thieves exploit publicised absences, reminding us all about the importance of robust home security — especially during the holiday season when travel and out-of-home events are frequent.

High-profile burglaries shed light on security gaps

For professional athletes, the challenges of home security are unique. Publicly available game schedules, social media posts and other forms of visibility make them especially vulnerable to targeted crimes. In Joe Burrow’s case, his Ohio home was broken into while he was playing against the Dallas Cowboys. Within a span of 48 hours, the homes of Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were targeted in separate burglaries. Among the stolen items were Kelce’s cherished first Super Bowl jersey and more than $100,000 worth of jewellery and luxury apparel.

According to ADT, for everyday homeowners, the takeaway is clear: Predictability and visibility increase vulnerability. Even if you're not a world-class athlete, ensuring the safety of your living space and loved ones should never be taken for granted.

“Incidents like these underscore the importance of being proactive,” said Kim Wright, Director of Corporate Security at ADT. “Our goal is to ensure homeowners can enjoy the holiday season without worry.”

Solutions for a safer holiday season

To help protect the home, ADT offers innovative solutions to fit various needs, whether the owners are home or away:

• Smart security systems offer advanced cameras and sensors and 24/7 monitoring, so the home owner can be notified about unusual activity. Whether it’s motion near an entryway or unexpected sounds inside.

• Timed lighting: The ADT+ app can be used to schedule lights to turn on and off at specific times, giving a home the appearance of being occupied — even when nobody is there.

• Remote access: Locks, alarms and cameras can be managed from virtually anywhere with the ADT+ app. Forgot to lock the front door before heading to the airport? With remote access, homeowners can secure their home with just a few taps.

• Community safety: Neighbours play a crucial role in helping keep homes and neighborhoods secure. With ADT’s Trusted Neighbor service, users can designate neighbours or friends as part of their security network. This allows them to receive alerts or notifications if unusual activity is detected around their home. Whether it’s picking up packages, checking on the property or adjusting outdoor lighting, trusted neighbours can act as an extra layer of vigilance.

Whether you’re a professional athlete, a frequent traveller or simply hosting loved ones this holiday season, proactive measures are key to helping protect the home.

Comprehensive solutions empower home owners to take control of their security, and with smart technology, professional monitoring and community collaboration, ADT can help ensure homes are protected.