Planning your next vacation is quite exciting, especially if you’re going away for a few weeks. Arranging places to stay and visit are only a few of the fun things to plan. However, how much planning have you done to keep your home safe while you’re away?
The experts at the police association agree that many people fail to take adequate measures to ensure the security of their homes whilst they’re away on holiday. It’s not unusual for homeowners to return from a period away to find their homes have been broken into! Keep reading for a few tips to minimise the risk.
Pointers to Minimise the Risk When You’re Away From Home
According to a recent survey done by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, an estimated 2.0% of households (about 193,300) have experienced a successful or attempted break-in during 2022. If you think 2% isn’t all that big a deal, you’ll quickly change your opinion if your home forms part of that statistic!
Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to keep your home as secure as possible when you’re away for extended periods. Here are a few top tips recommended by our experts.
1. Do a Security Audit
Your security audit should typically encompass the following checks:
- Verify the functionality of your alarm system if you have one.
- Confirm all CCTV cameras are operational and connected to an off-site server.
- Examine all external locks to ensure their strength and proper function.
- Make sure that security signs and stickers are current and prominently displayed.
- Share your security company’s contact details with a trustworthy neighbor.
- Inform your security company if you plan to be away, and provide them with an emergency contact—a nearby resident other than yourself.
2. Arrange to Have the Mail Collected
Many people opt for electronic statements and catalogues and don’t really have much need for a traditional post box. However, if you still receive mail, newspapers or junk mail it’s important to arrange to have it all collected. Having a pile of mail falling out of your mailbox is a clear indication that no one’s home.
3. Secure External Buildings
Did you know that Australia has one of the highest burglary rates in the world?
Another way to reduce the risk is to ensure that your external buildings, such as tool sheds and garages are secure. Keep in mind that burglars can use your tools—such as ladders—to actually break into your home.
Where possible, add an external lock and chain, or include these buildings in the security system set up to monitor the house.
4. Arrange with Neighbours
If you’re on good terms with one of your neighbours, it’s an excellent idea to ask them to keep an eye on your property. Furthermore, ask them to park their car in your driveway, or simply in front of your gate a few times a week. This creates the impression that someone is home and may deter a burglar who is looking for homes where they don’t see movement for several consecutive days.
Offer to do the same for your neighbours when it’s their turn to go away for a while.
5. Hide Your Valuables
Sometimes, no matter how rigorous your security measures are, burglars may still find a way into your home. In this instance you want them to find as little as possible.
Our experts recommend finding a way to conceal your valuables such as jewellery, watches, external hard drives and small electronics. Avoid the usual hiding places, like a bedside table’s drawer, because they’re the first places burglars will check.
Handy tip: Be sure to keep digital records of your appliances’ and electronics’ serial numbers for insurance purposes.
6. Remove the Obvious Spare Keys
We all know someone who has a spare key to their home in the flowerpot or under a rock near the front door. No matter how creative you are with your hiding place, keep in mind that burglars have a knack for finding hidden objects, so you’re putting your home at risk if you implement such a strategy.
Rather give your neighbour, friend or family member a spare key. Even arrange with them to visit your home a few times a week.
Top tip: our experts also recommend hiding any keys you leave in your home so that intruders don’t instantly have access to your garage and your vehicle parked in the garage!
Final Thoughts
Securing your home will give you peace of mind to enjoy your holiday without wondering if everything is still in order at home. Use a few of our tips to secure your home as part of planning your next vacation!
