Tips for securing your home when holidaying
Did you pack enough sun cream? Did you remember the passports? These are some of the questions you might be asking yourself before heading off on your summer holidays. However, one of the most important things to think about before you leave is the safety of your home.
Being vigilant and preparing your home before you jet off will make for a more relaxing holiday and ensure you leave any worries behind. Our guide below gives you some top tips on keeping your home safe, so you can have a stress-free and relaxing break.
Leave curtains open
You may already have a family friend or neighbour coming to water your plants or feed your pet so why not ask them to open or close your curtains when they call round. This will give any intruders a sense that someone is in the house.
Pick up your post
A pile of post lying through your letterbox is a tell-tale sign that no one is at home. It is worth getting someone to pick up your post or you can avail of the Royal Mail’s Keep Safe service - for a small fee - to store your mail while you’re away.
Set timers on your lights
Timers on your lights can be a great way to put off any watchful intruders. An hour in the evening, when it starts to get dark, would be enough to create a bit of life about your home.
Avoid social media boasting
It can be tempting to let your Facebook friends know you are heading on your long-awaited holiday, but this is simply another way for intruders to find out you are gone. Try to keep news of your holiday on a need-to-know basis and you can show off your holiday photos on your return.
Avoid fire and save energy
Leaving plugs switched on can be a fire hazard and also wastes energy while you are away. Make sure all switches are off and, as long as there is no risk of frost, perhaps turn off your heating too.
Keep valuables out of sight
This may seem obvious but if you can spy car keys or expensive electronic equipment through windows you may be tempting burglars. Keep valuables out of sight to avoid any opportunists spotting them.
Tidy your garden
Try to mow your lawn before you go on holiday to give the impression of a well-kept garden that hasn’t been abandoned by its owners for sunnier climates.
Check, check and check again
There is nothing worse than the lingering feeling that you have left an iron on or not locked a door. Avoid any anxiety around the safety of your home while you’re on holiday by checking every door, window and switch in your house before you leave.
Do you have any smart tips for securing your home whilst on holiday?
Share your top tips for keeping your home safe while on holiday using the hashtag #SmarterLiving on Facebook and Twitter - and we might just share them!
