6 Home security tips for the Holiday Season
Category Advice
The holiday season is upon us and although this is a joyous time of year where many people decide to take some time off and travel, many people tend to forget about securing their homes while they are away. It is important to ensure that while you and your family are not home your house is properly secured, therefore here are some helpful security tips for your home this holiday season:
1. Alert Your Neighbours.
If you are going on holiday, you need to ensure that you inform your neighbours and ask them to keep an eye on your home while you are away. Installing motion activated lighting in your driveway and garden can be largely beneficial as this will alert your neighbours of any suspicious activity. You could also offer up your driveway for their visitors to park in during the holiday festivities, as this will create the illusion that someone is home.
2. Test Alarms
It is crucial that you test all zones of your alarm system before you go on holiday. Contact your security company’s control centre to inform them that you will be conducting a test. If you pick up any problems with your alarm system, ensure that you contact a technician to have everything in full working order before your trip.
3. Check your parameter
Before you depart for your holiday, ensure that you take a walk around your property and inspect your gates and fencing for any damage which may allow intruders access to your property.
4. Trim extra foliage
Cut and trim any overhanging trees or shrubs around your fencing and gates as this not only makes for the perfect place for criminals to hide, but prevents your neighbours from seeing any suspicious activity in your property.
5. Lock Up
Although locking and securing windows, doors and sliding doors should be the final step to securing your home before a holiday, many people often forget to lock their garage door. People often don’t secure the door from the house to the garage and if an intruder manages to open your garage, they will have full access to your home if the door is not securely locked.
6. Be cautious on social media
Advertising your holiday on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can make you vulnerable to criminals. It is quite common for people to post pictures or statuses about their holiday with the use of geotagging. This allows criminals to easily research where you live and the amount of time your home will be vacant for.
There are several precautions you can to ensure that your home is properly secured, leaving you stress free and able to enjoy your holiday without having to worry about the status of your home and belongings.
Author: Dormehl Property Group
