Christmas getaway warning from Halifax

More than four million UK households risk being exposed to burglaries over Christmas according to a new report.

The study, carried out for Halifax Home Insurance as part of its ongoing campaign for more home security, reveals that almost a fifth (19%) intend to travel this Christmas. One-in-ten plan to be away for up to two weeks and longer, leaving their homes unoccupied and vulnerable to a break-in.

Of those intending to travel over Christmas a further fifth (19%) said they had no plans to improve home security before setting off.

Despite a third (34%) being worried about a break-in, people said they would rely on the goodwill of neighbours to be vigilant on their behalf.

Others would ask friends or relatives to house-sit. Only 8% of people said they would take steps to secure their home by fitting an alarm system or timers fixed to lights and radios.

Halifax Home Insurance, which offers unlimited contents cover, warns that empty homes over Christmas could prove too tempting for burglars if home security is inadequate.

Marty Foulds, Senior Claims Manager at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “At Christmas it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season and forget about home security. However, we all know there are criminals who see this time of the year as providing them with rich pickings. We are urging householders, especially those who plan to go away on holiday, to take measures to safeguard their home. This will go some way to avoiding an unpleasant return and of course a ruined Christmas.

“People can take practical measures to deter burglars and protect their homes while they are away by keeping expensive Christmas presents out of view, installing an alarm or even fitting timers to lights and radios which will create doubt in the burglar’s mind,” he added.

Of those intending to travel this Christmas more than a third (37%) plan to visit relatives, 4% intend to holiday in the UK while only 3% are jetting off to ski or enjoy a winter sun break.

Christmas security tips from Halifax Home Insurance

1. Going out to a party? Leave a light and radio on to make it look as if you are at home.

2. Don’t attract thieves by putting presents under the tree too far in advance of the big day.

3. Make sure your security lights work, showing up burglars and helping Santa find your home of course.

4. Don’t forget to post mark your electrical gifts with a UV pen and photograph jewellery.

5. Lock up the garage and shed. Don’t provide the burglar with an early present by supplying the tools to let him in.

6. Buy someone a prickly bush to plant next to the fence and give the thief a nasty surprise.

7. Take care of your neighbours by keeping an eye on their homes too. Tell them if you are going away.

8. Treat yourself to a house alarm for Christmas and get a reduction on your contents insurance premium.

9. Make sure you have adequate contents insurance and that cover is unlimited.

10. Beware of the bogus Santa or charity collector. Use a door chain to check it is the real Father Christmas before opening up.

Security expert and former Greater Manchester Police officer David Heathcote commented: “Christmas is a time for celebration, when families come together and we enjoy the festive season. It is also a time when burglaries increase – so don’t let your holiday be spoilt by ignoring the security of your home. Take some advice and keep your Christmas a happy one.”

Halifax Home Insurance is offering free tips and advice on beating burglars. Further details can be found online at halifax.co.uk\homesecurity.