The season of “Peace, Love and Goodwill” will soon be upon us, and for many owners locking their homes and escaping for a much-deserved summer holiday, this is also a time for “Peace of Mind”.
Sadly, the period between Christmas and the end of January is a peak time for home break-ins. Insurance companies, such as IAG, say claims rise by more than 20% during this time of year.
Burglars are generally opportunistic. They target homes during the summer break, knowing there’s a high likelihood the property will be vacant, and inside there’ll be valuable Christmas gifts to plunder.
A few simple, proactive steps can make the difference between a relaxing holiday and an unwelcome surprise upon your return.
Securing your home requires more than locking the doors and windows, of course. It’s about making your property appear active and an unattractive target.
Here are eight tips for to help you achieve peace of mind and enjoy your summer holiday:
Review insurance – Review your home and contents insurance policy to make sure it’s current. Bear in mind, you’ll need to meet all the required security conditions, such as using deadbolts for doors and window locks. Otherwise, any claim might be invalidated.
Impression of activity – There are certain signs that indicate there’s activity in the home. The most basic is an empty mailbox. So, before you go away, ask a trusted neighbour to collect your mail.
Smart lighting – Invest in automatic light timers that will switch on lights at a certain time of the day, or invest in smart home devices that allow you to program lights to come on at staggered times.
Full lockdown – Secure all windows and any sliding doors, which can often be jammed with a dowel or metal rod in the track. Be sure to lock up your shed and garage, as these often contain tools that will help a burglar gain entry.
Low visibility – As best as you can, keep all your Christmas gifts away from prying eyes at the windows. This is especially important if you have street frontage.
Driveway tactic – If you’re taking one car but leaving a second at home, ensure it’s parked in the driveway. This will give the impression the home is occupied.
Don’t be too social – Burglars have been known to target homes based on the social posts of residents on holiday. So, be careful what you say online while enjoying your time off.
And finally . . . Here’s an important tip that doesn’t focus on security: Turn off your mains water supply to prevent burst pipes or flexihose leaks. Also, unplug non-essential electronics to save energy and reduce the minor fire risk associated with some appliances.