Simple tips to avoid the post-holiday property burglary blues

WHETHER you’ve booked a week or two in the sun or have a planned a short family break – don’t forget to add home security to your money, passport, tickets checklist.

Make sure it’s not a case of out of sight, out of mind when it comes to protecting your property when you are away.

We can all greatly reduce the risk of burglary by taking a few simple security measures to help make our home less attractive to thieves.

It is well known that most burglars are opportunists, and target homes and businesses that offer the least risk of being caught.

Whether you’re going away for a day or a few weeks, you should take steps to make your home look occupied. A dark home in the evenings and uncollected mail is a sign to burglars that no one is home.

Before you go on holiday:

• Cancel milk and newspaper deliveries
• Set up automatic timer switches to turn your lights on when it gets dark
• Register for the Royal Mail’s ‘keepsake’ service
• Move valuable items out of view of windows
• Cut front and back lawns and trim back plants
• Don’t discuss holiday plans on social media
• Ask a trusted neighbour to watch over your home whilst you’re away

And there are steps you can take to keep your home safe and secure, even if you are simply spending an evening entertaining alfresco or are using a sunny day to get to grips with the gardening.

If you are at home, but are spending time outdoors:

• Ensure all windows and doors are closed and locked
• If you are switching between front and back gardens, don’t leave lawn mowers or power tools unattended
• Make sure you lock all gates and sheds when you return indoors
• Keep the door chain in the front door
• Keep all valuables and keys out of sight and out of reach of doors and windows
• Keep items that could be used to break into your property such as ladders, tools and wheelie bins stored safely away
• Use pea shingle on driveways or under windows, as it crunches loudly when stepped on.

If you are considering installing or upgrading any CCTV security / lighting or alarm systems – or even changing the locks – Safe Local Trades has many reputable traders who can help. Just click on the Home page and begin your search.