Security considerations when going away on holiday

Thanks to Crime Prevention Expert, Stephen Armson-Smith of Essex Police for sending me his latest crime prevention article for publication.

This time Stephen has listed the key things you should do to make your place looked lived in when it isn’t. In support, I’ve added a link to my own Holiday Security Checklist, which goes into a little more detail, and which you can print out and keep with the rest of your holiday docs. You might also find it useful to check out my guidance on Safer Travel Abroad, because crime risks exist abroad as well as at home.

Here’s Stephen’s list

Make your home look like someone is living in it:

• Ensure that windows, doors and gates are closed and locked correctly.
• Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights and radios on [and off] when it goes dark and also consider getting a “Fake TV”.
• If you have an intruder alarm make sure that you set it before leaving and ensure that your neighbours know who the keyholders are.
• 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. Mail sitting on your doorstep is a sign that you are away
• Trusted neighbours may be able to help you by collecting your post, opening and closing curtains and they could park their car on your driveway
• Avoid discussing holiday plans on public social networking sites - burglars can use any information you post on there to their advantage. Also, be careful about what you are posting while you are away too or you may find you are giving useful information that the burglar or fraudster may use.

Holiday Security Checklist https://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/home-security-assessment/469/holiday-checklist-for-your-security/

Safer Travel Abroad https://thecrimepreventionwebsite.com/safer-travel/811/safer-travel-abroad/