As we approach the festive season, many holidaymakers are gearing up for a well-deserved year-end break after a demanding year. Whether your destination is the beach, the bush, or the mountains, the paramount concern is the safety and security of your home during your absence.
Statistics reveal a notable increase in home burglaries during December and the preceding months. Criminals rightly anticipate that individuals will be away, and neighbourhoods will be quieter during this time, making inadequately secured homes vulnerable targets.
Investing time and resources to ensure your home is fully secured this festive season is highly advisable. Follow these simple yet effective preventive measures for peace of mind:
Inform your trusted neighbours or friends about your departure and return dates, ensuring they have emergency contact numbers for you and your companions.
If you have a security company patrolling your area, such as ADT or Beagle Watch, notify them of your departure and request increased vigilance over your property during your absence.
Conduct a thorough inspection of locks and latches on all windows and doors, ensuring they are secure and in good working order. Close and lock all windows and doors before leaving, and consider installing burglar bars and security gates for additional security.
Avoid leaving keys in obvious locations, such as inside doors, under doormats, above doorframes, or other easily discoverable spots.
Remember that insurance policies may become invalid if the alarm system malfunctions. Regularly check and test your alarm system, especially before leaving, to prevent leaving your home vulnerable and the possibility of a rejected claim. Ensure the alarm system covers all areas of the property for maximum protection.
If feasible, install a CCTV system and reliable software that connects remotely to your cellphone or laptop via the internet. Visible cameras act as deterrents to criminals and allow remote monitoring of your home.
Consider leaving a radio on to create the appearance of occupancy, but avoid leaving out-of-town messages on your postbox, front door, or voicemail. Arrange for someone to collect and clear all mail from your driveway and mailbox. If you have a newspaper delivery service, suspend it for the duration of your absence.
Leaving lights on day and night signals an unoccupied home. Alternatively, install and set electronic timers on interior and exterior lights to simulate regular activity. Quality outdoor lighting, especially motion sensor lights, serves as a deterrent to burglars and alerts neighbours to any unusual behavior.
Elevate your home security measures and maintain vigilance during this holiday period to avoid the emotional and financial stress of returning to a burglarized house. Taking these simple, proactive steps before your departure will provide the peace of mind needed to relax and enjoy your well-deserved break.
