How to secure your home while on vacation
Take all the stress out of the festive season by following these easy preparation tips before going away on holiday.
WE all want to remember the festive season for the right reasons – sun, seas, families, laughter and joy.
With many families going on holiday, Charnel Hattingh, group head of Communications and Marketing at Fidelity ADT, has provided an easy checklist that can help ensure that your holiday memories are not spoilt by someone robbing your home while it is empty.
Also read: Preparing your security system for weather changes
– Tell someone
Most suburbs have active neighbourhood watches with volunteers who will be on duty. Let them know to keep an eye on your home. It’s also a good idea to alert your neighbours, and definitely tell your armed response company.
– Test the locks and gates
Look at your property from the outside in, and ask yourself if all the possible access points are properly secured. Make sure there are no broken locks or gates that could easily be forced open.
– Fence it in
Perimeter fences and walls are valuable security elements, but their effectiveness means nothing if anyone can use an overgrown tree to quickly climb over. Holes in hedges can similarly prove to be a problem. If something gives criminals easy access to your property, then it demands urgent attention before you drive off.
– Test your alarms, and use them
Any home security system needs regular testing and maintenance. Test your system as often as you can, and don’t wait till the last minute to discover any technical problems. And please use the system so it can keep an eye on your property while you are away.
– Pack privately
It is preferable to pack your bags and load the car behind closed doors or gates so you don’t unnecessarily broadcast your holiday absence to any unwanted visitors.
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