Protecting Your Home While You’re On Holiday

18 March 2022

Going on holiday is a super exciting time and once everything is paid for and your cases are packed, the only thing left to worry about is the security of your home whilst it’s left empty.
We all have that worry “did we lock the doors?” or “did we close the garage?” Putting in place a few extra security measures while your home is empty will not only give you peace of mind, but will also ensure you can fully relax and enjoy your well-deserved holiday.

Here’s a few ideas to keep your home and precious items safe.

Leave your car on the driveway

Of course, this is impossible if you are using it while on vacation. Having either your car or your neighbour’s car parked outside your home is a great way to give the impression there’s someone at home.

Install a security system

Installing a camera, either real or fake can deter burglars away from your home. If burglars see cameras outside, they will know your home is probably well protected.

Keep ladders or tools locked inside

Make sure you hide any outdoor items especially ladders, because ladders are an invitation for burglars to attempt to make access via upper floors, whilst other tools could be used to break windows or pick locks.

Don’t post on social media

Posting photos of yourselves hundreds of miles away is an open invitation for would-be burglars or those who intend to do no good. You are basically announcing that your home is empty and probably for at least a few days, so best not to announce it.

Lock up any valuables you may have

Your treasured possessions are more vulnerable when you are not home so you should always ensure that expensive or sentimental items are safely locked away in a safe or hidden in a secure place before you leave.

Don’t stash a key to your property

Plant pots, under doormats and inside plant pots are a place where many people stash a key. This is fine if you live in a trusted neighbourhood with trusted friends and neighbours, but potential criminals would know this is the first place to look when planning a burglary. Instead, leave your spare key with a friend or family member.

Turn off your GPS

Leaving your GPS on display in your parked car will make it an easy target for thieves who will not only break in and steal your car, but can also use it to drive to your empty home, and then help themselves to your valuables.

Lastly, it’s very important to protect your home from a sudden fire. Incidences of fire can happen even when your home is unattended and it is therefore super important that you test your smoke alarms before you leave.
To help reduce the risk of electrical fires make sure to unplug and switch off any unnecessary electrical items including lamps, TV’s and modems.

If you are really concerned about leaving your home empty while you’re on holiday, you could consider getting a house sitter. This is a great idea especially if you have pets. This could be a trusted friend or a family member, or you could look online and find a company or agency that offers the service.

In order to fully enjoy your holiday and be able to relax to the full, ensure that you have enough systems in place to take care of your home and possessions while you are away.

Property Information