Lock up before you lounge in the summer sun

You work hard all year round to enjoy your well-earned two week break in the sun however it’s worth remembering that it’s not only home owners who look forward to the holiday season – intruders also relish this time of year too.

Empty homes make for easy targets so before you and your family head off to the airport, set aside a few minutes to check that your property is as safe and secure as possible.

The good news is that it doesn’t take much to secure your house so before you jet away, ensure your property and its contents are as safe as possible by following these guidelines from Persimmon Homes East Midlands:

Put yourself in a burglar’s shoes

Examine your home from the street and make sure no valuables, such as expensive electronics, artwork or jewellery are visible. If a passer by can see your belongings, so too can a criminal. Make sure that entrance to your property isn’t obscured so trim overgrown trees to prevent burglars hiding in shrubbery.

Fit extra locks

For homes that do not have locks already pre-fitted, consider buying inexpensive window locks – especially for those that are not double-glazed. And don’t forget to make sure they are all locked before you go away!

Sliding doors

Any kind of sliding glass door is a favourite target so make sure you secure patios – place a metal rod or piece of plywood in the track to prevent an intruder forcing the door open.

Lighting

Make it appear that you are home by installing timers on lights that give the impression of life and activity within the home. Why not set them for different times to ensure a realistic use of the light? Exterior lighting is also very important as a deterrent to criminals – they obviously don’t want to be seen or identified so consider illuminating the perimeter of your property by installing low-voltage outdoor lights.

Ask a friend/neighbour to take in post

Never leave clues that you are away. If possible ask a friend or neighbour to take in your post for you. There is nothing more obvious than post sticking out of a letterbox to let people know that you are on holiday. Also, invite your neighbour to park in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home.

Cancel any milk/newspaper deliveries

Cancel your deliveries while you are away, again a line-up of full milk bottles or a big pile of newspapers will shout ‘person on holiday’ to all and sundry.

Alarm systems

Alarm systems definitely have a place in home security. The audible alarm increases the potential of others being alerted to the activity and home burglars may bypass a home with an alarm system box installed on the exterior. It is always worthy to remember not to write your password near the alarm keypad.

Leave the radio on

If it is a short break, consider leaving your radio on to give the impression of people in the home.

And remember…

It may sound obvious but, never leave a message on your answering machine saying you are on holiday!

Adrian Evans, managing director for Persimmon Homes East Midlands comments: “Many burglaries are crimes of opportunity and it only needs an open window, unlocked side gate or inefficient alarm for an intruder to make their move. Everyone who is planning to go on holiday this year should follow our advice to ensure that relaxed feeling they enjoyed on holiday continues when they return home.”