Going on Holiday? Things to think about to keep your home secure whilst you're away!

Are you unintentionally advertising you home and possessions to the opportunist burglar? When planning on leaving your home for that well deserved holiday break don't make the simple mistakes which announce your absence to those on the lookout for an easy crime.

1. Close the blinds and draw the curtains. 

One of the easiest ways to conceal the contents of your home is to simply close the blinds and pull the curtains. It seems obvious but criminals love nothing better than to have a quick window shop to help them decide on what valuables to take and whether it's worth the effort. It also means a burglar will be uncertain if you are there or not, if they can see inside and notice no movement then they are much more likely to break in.

Tip: If you do see unfamiliar people around your neighbourhood and are uneasy about leaving your home unattended whilst away you can always call the non emergency police and ask them to patrol the area a little more often. Whilst away on holiday speak to a neighbour or friend and ask them to keep an eye on the house and any unwanted activity from strangers. 

2. Broadcasting your travel arrangements on social media. 

Tweeting about your early start, the trip to the airport, the departures board, the delays, this only gives an exact itinerary of everywhere you are but at your empty house!  You post up pictures on Facebook of every meal, place and local you meet as well as 'Checking in' to your new destination, how very thoughtful to any would be thief!

Tip: On your return post up all your favourite photos and status!

3. Leaving the rubbish out before the pickup day

You may not want to miss the rubbish collection but leaving you bin out days before collection day is a sure sign your out of town, and any one observing your house will notice this straight away. Any bulky packaging for new items is best disposed of away from prying eyes as it's a nice inventory of all the lovely items that are available in your home.

Tip:  Again, ask a friendly neighbour to put your rubbish out with theirs and if not then you're just going to have to miss a week or two!

4. Leaving a note on the door for deliveries

You’re away for two weeks but expecting a delivery so you leave a message on the front door notifying the delivery man you're away and that any packages should be left with the neighbour, thus notifying the post man, delivery driver and everyone else to your absence!

Tip: Its best to try and rearrange delivery times to when you return however if this is not possible try a simpler message such as 'today please leave any packages next door.

5. Predictable automatic timers. 

Having lights and appliances switch on and off with automatic timers may seem like a great way to deter burglars but they are very predictable and will soon become apparent to any one closely watching your home.

Tip: The best answer is to use multiple timers with varying time scales as well as a PIR system which will activate any designated plug socket when the sensor detects movement. This will create a much more realist and natural effect with lights and appliances coming on and off at more varied times and whenever someone approaches a certain area of your property.