Going on holiday should be a time to relax, not worry about home security. But with opportunistic burglars often on the lookout for empty properties, taking precautions before you leave can give you peace of mind.
By following a few simple steps, you can make your home less appealing to criminals and reduce the risk of break-ins.
Secure all entry points
It may seem obvious, but double-checking that all doors and windows are locked is a crucial first step. This includes less commonly used entry points such as side gates, garages and conservatories. If you have a letterbox, consider fitting an internal restrictor to prevent burglars from fishing keys or unlocking the door from the outside.
For added protection, installing high-quality locks approved by British Standards (BS3621) can provide an extra layer of security. If your doors and windows have weak or outdated locks, it may be worth upgrading them before you go away.
Keep valuables out of sight
Leaving valuable items in plain view can attract unwanted attention. Before leaving, store jewellery, electronics and important documents in a safe or a locked drawer. If possible, avoid placing expensive items near windows where they can be seen from the outside.
Consider marking valuables with a UV pen or a property marking system to make them less appealing to thieves and easier to recover if stolen.
Make your home look occupied
Burglars are more likely to target homes that appear unoccupied. To create the illusion that someone is home:
- Use timer switches on lights to turn them on and off at different times.
- You can even buy tools that project TV-like light, giving the impression that someone is watching TV to anyone watching in from the window
- Ask a trusted neighbour to park in your driveway.
- Arrange for someone to collect post, or use Royal Mail’s Keepsafe service to hold your mail until you return.
- Avoid leaving bins out for long periods, as this can be a sign that no one is home.
Be mindful of social media
It’s tempting to share holiday updates on social media, but doing so can inadvertently alert criminals to your absence. Avoid posting real-time updates about your trip until you return. If you do want to share photos, consider adjusting your privacy settings so that only close friends and family can see your posts.
Install a visible security system
Homes with visible security measures are less likely to be targeted by burglars. A well-placed alarm system, CCTV cameras or even a video doorbell can act as a strong deterrent.
Modern security solutions allow you to monitor your home remotely, giving you real-time updates and alerts if any suspicious activity is detected. If you already have a security system, make sure it’s in full working order before you leave.
Secure outdoor areas
Garden sheds and outbuildings often contain valuable tools and equipment that can be used to break into your home. Ensure these areas are locked with strong padlocks and, if possible, secure items like ladders to prevent easy access to upper windows.
If you have a fence or hedge, check for any weak spots where an intruder could gain access. Motion-activated security lights can also be a good deterrent, as they make it harder for burglars to approach unseen.
Consider smart home security
Technology can play a key role in home security while you’re away. Smart home security systems allow you to control lights, alarms and cameras from your phone, making it easy to check in on your property no matter where you are. Some systems can even simulate activity in the home, helping to deter burglars.
If you’re considering upgrading your security setup, a smart system could be a worthwhile investment.
Ask a neighbour for help
A trusted neighbour can be invaluable when it comes to home security. Ask them to keep an eye on your property, water your plants or even pop in occasionally to create activity. Providing them with a spare key (rather than leaving one hidden outside) ensures they can access the house if needed.
If you’re part of a neighbourhood watch scheme, let them know you’ll be away so they can keep an extra lookout.
Don’t forget fire safety
While securing your home against intruders is important, it’s also essential to protect it from fire hazards. Before leaving:
- Unplug non-essential electrical items to reduce the risk of electrical fires.
- Check that smoke alarms are working.
- Ensure that no flammable materials are left near heat sources.
Enjoy your holiday with enhanced peace of mind
Taking the time to prepare your home before going on holiday can help prevent break-ins and other security risks. By securing entry points, making your home look occupied and considering modern security solutions, you can relax knowing your property is protected while you’re away.
If you’re interested in enhancing your home’s security, now could be the perfect time to explore new solutions. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home safe this summer.
Want to learn more about smart security? Read our blog to get a full understanding of what it is, and what it means.