Going away for the holidays - Security tips

Thieves are often on the look-out for homes that look empty, particularly during holiday-times, as they know a lot of people go away. Follow Crimestoppers advice below to help prevent your home from being a victim of robbery.

- Make your home look like someone is living in it, e.g. don't close your curtains. In daytime this shows your house is empty. Also, use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on when it goes dark. You can do this even if you are just going out for the evening.
- Cancel any newspaper or milk deliveries.
- Use the Royal Mail's 'Keepsafe' service - they keep your mail for up to 2 months while you're away.
- Trusted neighbours may be able to help by collecting your post, opening and closing curtains, they could even park their car in your driveway.
- Avoid discussing holiday plans where strangers may hear details of your absence from home.
- Try not to take a taxi to the airport. If you do, use a taxi company you can rely on, don't discuss your holiday plans and make it sound like you have a house-sitter, whether you do or not.
- Cut the lawns and trim back any plants that thieves could hide behind.
- Leave important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank. Alternatively lock them in a safe.
- Don't put your home address on your luggage when travelling to your destination. A house number and postcode will suffice if you want to label your luggage.
- If you normally leave valuable bicycles or similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house.
- Make sure that you lock all outside doors and windows and set your burglar alarm if you have one.

Tips courtesy of Crimestoppers