Safe Space
Ah, holiday—the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and create unforgettable memories. But before you head off to the beach or the mountains, make sure your home isn't left vulnerable to opportunistic burglars or unexpected disasters. Here’s an easy guide to prepping your home so you can enjoy your time away, worry-free.
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Security Systems: Your Home’s Personal Bodyguard
If you’re serious about home safety, a monitored security system should be top of your list. Smart systems are brilliant for checking in while lounging on the beach—until you realise there’s no signal! That’s where a traditional monitored system becomes your best friend. For extra peace of mind, add more sensors and cameras, showing would-be intruders that your home is locked down and well protected.
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Stop Your Mail
Nothing screams "I’m not home!" louder than a letterbox stuffed with post and flyers. Pause your deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbour to collect your post while you're away. Just make sure it’s someone you really trust—otherwise, your sense of security might take a holiday too!
Have a Friend Keep an Eye on Things
Can’t shake that nagging feeling about leaving your home? Ask a trusted friend or family member to drop by every few days. They can check doors, windows, and other entry points to make sure everything is secure. Knowing someone is keeping an eye on your property will help you relax.
Use Timers for Your Electronics
Want your house to look occupied while you’re away? Set timers for your lights, TVs, and radios. Timers are inexpensive and easy to set up, and they can give your home the appearance of life—even if you’re miles away sipping cocktails. A well-lit house is a safe house.
Keep the Garden Tidy
An overgrown lawn is a dead giveaway that no one’s home. Before you go, make sure the grass is trimmed, and if possible, ask someone to mow the lawn while you’re away. A well-kept garden makes your home look lived in, even when it’s not.
Lock Away Tools and Ladders
Don’t make life easy for burglars. Leaving ladders or tools in plain sight can be an open invitation. Lock them away so no one gets any ideas about using them to break in.
Park a Car in the Driveway
If you’re leaving a car behind, make sure it’s parked on the driveway to give the impression someone’s home. If your car is going with you, ask a neighbour to park theirs in your driveway. It’s a simple trick, but it works wonders for home security.
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Keep Holiday Plans Off Social Media
We all love a cheeky #holidayvibes post, but announcing you’re hundreds of miles from home can be an open invitation for burglars. Hold off on the social media updates and share your photos when you’re back home, safe and sound.
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Lock Up Your Valuables
Even with the best security, it’s smart to lock away your most valuable or sentimental possessions. Whether it's a safe, lockbox, or a well-hidden spot, make sure your treasured items are secure before you leave. Better to be safe than sorry!
Stick to Your Regular Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule
If you have regular cleaners, gardeners, or even a pool maintenance service, ask them to continue their visits while you’re away. A busy-looking house gives the impression that someone’s home, making it less likely to be targeted.
Curtain Call: To Close or Not to Close?
Keeping your curtains drawn day and night can make your home look more like a deserted fortress than a lived-in space. Leave your curtains and blinds as you would if you were home, to avoid signalling that your house is unoccupied.
Don’t Hide a Spare Key
We’ve all hidden a spare key under the mat or a flower pot at some point, but when you’re away, that’s a big no-no. Don’t make it easy for burglars—either give a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbour, or keep it safely inside.
Prepare for Storms
If you live in an area prone to severe weather, don’t forget to storm-proof your home before you go. Secure any outdoor furniture and cover windows if necessary. Just make sure your home doesn’t look like it’s on lockdown—you want it storm-ready, not burglar-ready.
With these home safety tips in mind, you’ll have nothing to worry about except which cocktail to order next. So go ahead, enjoy your well-deserved break—you’ve earned it!
08 Nov 2024
