Packing up a 10 kg suitcase with starry eyes, the last thought for most holidaymakers is what they’re leaving behind. It’s important to remain savvy a
Packing up a 10 kg suitcase with starry eyes, the last thought for most holidaymakers is what they’re leaving behind. It’s important to remain savvy about home security, especially when vacating properties for a prolonged period.
While police officers are now required to attend burglaries within an hour, that didn’t stop 82% of incidents from remaining unresolved in 2023. Security should never be an afterthought; be proactive instead. Here are the main home security tips to utilise when going on holiday.
Ensure All Entry Points Are Secure
Standard proceedings always apply when performing a “final lock-up.” Double-check all windows, doors, and gates. Preventing an intruder from forcing entry is difficult, but leaving an open invitation? Don’t risk tempting fate as the last thing you need is to return to a burgled house.
Factor in enough time for a final sweep of the property, checking that all entry points are properly secured. Try to prioritise side doors (and don’t overlook garages, especially if you’ve rushed around to find suitcases and belongings). A simple five minutes is sufficient.
Make Your Home Appear Occupied
The easiest way to dissuade burglars? Pretend you never left. Smart lighting has never been more useful for this purpose, and timed lights work a treat. Alternatively, suck up a meagre addition to your energy bill and leave a radio playing. The best protection is often prevention.
Other tell-tale signs of a vacant property are uncollected post and unmoved bins. Enlist the help of a friendly neighbour and bring them back a nice souvenir as a thank you.
Be Cautious with Social Media
Digital footprints are becoming increasingly important to consider. It might be worth avoiding posting holiday plans or photos online until you return. In fact, it’s never safe to share your exact location in real-time, especially if travelling solo.
Still, there is a compromise if that all sounds a little extreme. Instead of going completely MIA, set your accounts to private to ensure your absence is only shared amongst trusted friends.
Invest in Home Security Systems
Home security systems are the technology sent straight from heaven. These features act as a first line of defence, sending would-be intruders running for the hills. Alarms, CCTV cameras, and smart doorbells are all clever choices. Better yet? Many of these allow homeowners to monitor their properties remotely.
Upgrade to Electric Garage Doors
If you haven’t upgraded your garage doors yet, there’s a massive flaw in your current security setup. Traditional garage doors rely on manual operation and, as such, are extremely vulnerable to forced entry.
Upgrading to electric garage doors enhances security. These modernised solutions typically feature advanced locking mechanisms and can be operated remotely. It’s not just a question of protecting valuables, like bicycles and tools; adjoining garages create a weakened entry point to your home.
Keep your home safe by investing in security tips and strategies — before the taxi pulls up outside.
