At this time of the year, we're all brainwashed into thinking nothing but happy thoughts: sparkling lights, choruses of carolers, tasty baked goods and the like. But before we settle into the usual blissful holiday stupor, we'd be wise to take care of a few logistical matters. Namely, we need to protect ourselves from (gasp!) criminals.

Not to be a downer, but the holiday season is one of the most crime-ridden times of the year. For a crook, the holidays are very merry indeed: a time when the trunk of every car is filled with quality loot, a time when wallets are at their fattest, and a time when homeowners are more likely than ever to be conveniently out of town.

Before I moved to the city, I rarely, if ever, locked my doors. This included the doors of my car, a 1977 station wagon which, truth be told, I prayed would be stolen. My carelessness was perhaps a form of rebellion. My father, whose career oscillations included private detective, law-enforcement officer, and (briefly) security alarm salesman, constantly reminded us kids of the myriad dangers lurking in the world. But for a long time, through early adulthood, I simply didn't want to believe that bad guys existed.

But you know what? They do. Not many bad guys, just enough to spoil things for the rest of us if we're not careful. Although analyzing your own personal security can be a little disconcerting, it can also be very empowering. The following guide can help you to begin brainstorming a security strategy that's right for you.