- Get a home monitoring system - Some home security systems even allow you to view live video remotely from your phone, so you can see what’s happening in real-time. This small investment is well worth your peace of mind! Be sure to advertise any security systems you have by putting the stickers provided in windows and near front doors.
- Keep up with regular home maintenance - Continue with regular lawn mowing or pool cleaning contracts. Have someone water the plants.
- Leave a key with a friend or family member - Put a hold on regular paper deliveries etc, but have someone clean out the letterbox at least every second day. They can also check for forgotten deliveries left at your door and place out your rubbish bins at the right times.
- Keep a low profile on social media – leave the vacation shots and holiday memories to be posted on social media until your return. Don’t advertise openly that you are away from home for any extended periods of time.
- Lock up your valuables – if you have a safe, lock items of value inside. If you don’t, consider hiding places that are not obvious or leave valuables with a friend or family member.
- Don’t leave a hidden key - potential thieves will always look for a hidden key, and they will find it. This spare key is the one you should be giving to a friend or family member (see point three).
- Install an outdoor sensor light. They give the appearance that someone is home and are useful year-round for general home security whether you’re home or not. Plug a timer into a home lamp/ radio or television to have it turn on and off at certain times of the day. Giving the impression that someone is home every night could deter those nasty and unwanted guests.
- Driveway use - Keep up the illusion that someone is home by inviting neighbours to use your driveway for extra cars or guests during the time you’re away on vacations.
- Lock up and clean up - Lock up the garage and put outdoor furniture and tools away. Don’t make it easy for burglars! Make sure you’ve locked up all ladders, tools and even garden furniture in your garage or shed – burglars often use these to break in to homes. You should also maintain your garden and cut back trees or bushes close to your home to eliminate hiding places.
- Shoes – leave a few pairs of shoes at the front door to make it look like someone is home. A pair of men’s boots or sneakers (or both) is a great idea.
HOLIDAY SAFETY
