How to secure your home while you are away At Crimsafe, we have some simple tips to protect your home or business during the holiday period. An empty house can be a tempting target for burglars, especially if it’s left unattended for days or weeks at a time. That’s why it’s important to create the impression that your home is still occupied, while also putting extra security measures in place before you leave. A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your home safe while you enjoy your holiday. Here are a few easy tips to help you prepare before you head off: Use light timers A well-lit home suggests someone is inside. Using timers to switch lights on and off in the evening can mimic your usual routine and make your home appear occupied after dark, deterring ‘crims’ (criminals). Manage your mail and bins An overflowing letterbox is one of the clearest signs that no one is home. Ask a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member to collect your mail regularly while you are away. The same goes for bins. A full bin left of the curb after collection day could be seen as a signal that you are out and your house is empty. Tidy up the garden An overgrown lawn or unkempt garden can indicate that a home has been vacant for a while. Before you leave, mow the lawn and prune trees and hedges. Keeping the garden neat helps maintain the appearance of an occupied home. Remove spare keys Before leaving, remove any spare keys and store them securely inside or leave them with someone you trust. Think before you post Holidays are worth sharing but be mindful of what and when you post on social media. Check your privacy settings and avoid advertising that you’re away from home for an extended period. Consider saving your holiday posts until after you return. Consider a trusted house-sitter A house-sitter can keep your home looking lived in and ensure that mail is collected, bins pulled in, and gardens are cared for. Arranging for someone to drop in occasionally can help make your home look lived in to deter ‘crims’. Strengthen your physical security If a burglar does approach your home while you’re away, strong security measures can make all the difference. High-quality security screens on your doors and windows, security cameras, and locks on doors and windows add a powerful layer of protection — both when you’re on holiday and when you’re at home. For more information about Crimsafe security screens and the protection they provide to your home, speak with our Crimsafe team. They will be happy to assist with all your queries and what Crimsafe security screen may suit your needs.
