Your bags are packed, you’ve switched off all the essential appliances and the shuttle is on its way to take you to the airport… yebo, you’re ready for your holiday!
However, as a homeowner, you can’t help but worry that you’re leaving your abode exposed to danger. Specifically, and understandably, you’re scared of unsavoury characters breaking in while you’re away.
No one likes returning from their holiday to find their home burgled. Indeed, the peace and relaxation you gained on holiday can instantly evaporate when you realise that your personal space has been disturbed. Not to mention discovering that your most precious possessions have been stolen.
Fortunately, there are several ways you can properly secure your property and avoid this scary scenario.
HOME SECURITY 101
Before you jet off on your holiday, you should implement the following six safety tips for ease of mind:
1. INFORM TRUSTED CONTACTS
It’s tempting to shout it out to the whole world that you’re going on holiday. However, to minimise the risk of burglary, it’s best to tell those whom you trust about your travel plans. These can be your family, friends and your neighbours.
While you’re away, they can collect your mail, water the plants and generally keep an eye out for suspicious activity. If need be, you can ask someone whom you think is reliable and trustworthy to house-sit for you. All in all, these activities keep up the pretence that your home isn’t empty.
Additionally, discuss your travel plans with your insurance company. That way, you can ensure that you’re covered in the event that something untoward occurs while you’re away.
2. BOLSTER YOUR HOME SECURITY SYSTEM
A good home security system is an effective deterrent to intruders. Such a system consists of a security alarm, cameras and motion sensors.
Before you go, double-check that all of these are in working order. For example, when testing the motion sensors, walk around your home and see if they trigger an alarm or send a notification to your phone.
3. LIGHT IT UP
Thanks to the advancements in technology, you can schedule timers, smart bulbs and motion-activated lights so that they illuminate your property at various points of the day.
Again, this keeps up the appearance that your home is occupied, which deters criminals from breaking in.
4. REINFORCE YOUR ENTRY POINTS
Entry points, says Property24, include doors and windows. As such, these need to be reinforced before you go.
Secure these points with locks, security bars and deadbolts. This limits access, thereby adding an extra layer of security to your home. Double-check these are all in place before you depart.
5. SECURE YOUR VALUABLES
Planning to leave your laptop and car behind? Perhaps you’re confident that your jewellery will be safe tucked away in the corner of your sock drawer.
Suffice it to say, you should never underestimate the criminal mind. When it comes to valuables and equipment that are visible through windows, sitting outside or are generally within reach, they are adept at taking them. Remember the Louvre heist in October?
Make sure that you keep smaller valuables like jewellery and electronics locked away in a fireproof safe. For vehicles such as cars and bikes, park them in your garage. As for gardening equipment, store it in a secure shed or Wendy house.
6. GET REMOTE ACCESS
Some folks rest easy on their holidays. On the other hand, some want to know at all times if their home is safe. Of course, this means constantly asking for updates from their security company or from the people who know about their trip.
For peace of mind, obtain a security system with remote access. Using an app, you’ll be able to check in on your home in real time, review your camera feed, arm or disarm your alarm, and so on. Run some tests before you leave.
Just remember that you’re going on holiday – this is a time to relax and renew. It’s valid to be worried about your home; by the same token, spending your entire break to monitor your security system can be taxing and will only strengthen your stress levels.
SECURING YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYING SOUL
By implementing these helpful tips, you can ensure the safety of your home. In the process, you will be able to better enjoy your holiday – and deservedly so!
If you know of any other tips you use to safeguard your home, sound off in the comments section below.
