Going on Holiday? Secure Your Home

The summer holidays are right around the corner, but sadly, figures show that unoccupied homes during the summer are also the perfect opportunity for burglars to strike.

 

With millions of us travelling abroad every summer, and around 75% of burglaries occurring when a property is unoccupied, it is a good idea to take extra measures to make sure your home and your possessions are safe before you jet off.

 

We bring you our top tips for ensuring you return home to find everything exactly as you left it!

 

Don’t advertise

Try not to advertise the fact that you are on holiday to anyone other than friends, neighbours and family. Use social networking sites wisely, and consider security settings and the details you give away about your holiday on sites like Facebook and Twitter.

 

Curtains and blinds

While it may seem like a good idea, don’t leave curtains drawn while you are away as this can actually give burglars a stronger indication that you are not there. Simply move your valuables out of reach and sight of windows.

 

Secure your valuables

Avoid using obvious hiding places like your sock drawer or under the bed. If a thief does make it into your house, these will be the first places they will look. Use a secure, well-hidden location or consider putting your valuables into self-storage while you are away.

 

Lights

Invest in plug-in timers to operate your lights to give potential burglars the impression there’s someone home. Security lights outdoors will illuminate anyone getting a bit too close to your property, which could be a big deterrent for thieves sussing out the area.

 

Neighbours

Inform your neighbours that you are going away so they can keep an eye on your home while you are gone. If you are on good terms with a trusted neighbour you could leave them with a spare key so they can pick up post, put out bins and open curtains every now and again.

 

Doors and Windows

Ensure locks on all windows and doors are fitted, working and fully secured before you go.

 

Alarm

If you have an alarm system, use it! It can act as an effective deterrent for burglars and if someone does get in then the authorities can be alerted straight away.

 

With flexible self-storage options from Spaces and Places, you have the option to store possessions and high-value items in a secure unit while you are away.

 

With no long-term contracts or notice periods, you can store your items for a few days or a few weeks, giving you peace of mind that should the worst happen while you are away, your most treasured possessions are safe from the grasp of potential thieves.