Whether you are spending Easter at home or away, safeguarding your most valuable asset should be a priority. With neighbourhoods often quieter, homes become more vulnerable, and statistics show a significant increase in break-ins during holiday periods.
Data from Auto & General Insurance, for example, shows a 96% rise in Easter break-in claims in 2019 compared to a typical weekend.
Some tips to protect your home and add peace of mind to your holiday include:
- Inform your security company of the periods that you will be away and provide contact details for someone local.
- Leave spare keys and contact details with a neighbour or friend. Include your security company and the details of relatives or friends who can be reached in your absence.
- Test your alarm system and perimeter security to ensure it is functioning correctly. If you encounter any issues, inform your security company.
- Before leaving, even for short periods, double-check that all windows and doors are locked, security gates are secured, and the alarm is armed.
- Turn off and unplug electrical appliances, close taps, and shut off gas supplies. Disable timers for swimming pools or other features.
- Utilise light timers to switch on lights inside and outside your home, creating the illusion of occupancy.
- A CCTV system linked to your cell phone is one way to remotely monitor your home while you are away. These cameras can cover the interior and exterior.
- Request a neighbour to collect mail and pamphlets to avoid a build-up that indicates an empty house.
- Arrange for pet care by hiring a house sitter or pet sitter if you are not using a kennel service. A house sitter can maintain the property and prepare it for your return.
- Review your insurance policies to confirm it is up-to-date and offer comprehensive coverage for your home and belongings.
- To avoid any appearance of vacancy, maintain a tidy exterior by arranging for the lawn to be mowed during extended absences.
- Trim overgrown bushes and trees to eliminate potential hiding places for intruders. Remove items such as bins or ladders which can provide access into the property.
- Secure valuables and important documents at home. Backup any important work and store laptops and valuable electronics out of sight in a safe place.
- Park vehicles inside a garage or enclosed area to deter potential thieves. Do not leave items such as bicycles around the yard.
- Keep a list of important contact numbers readily available, and consider installing emergency response apps on your phone for quick response in case of an incident.
- Ensure the identity of anyone calling the house is verified, including anyone from the local municipality or other service providers, including fibre installers.
Writer: Gina Meintjes
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