How to Protect Your Home Whilst You’re Away for the Festive Break
The festive season is a time for celebration, whether it means visiting loved ones or taking a well-deserved holiday. However, with many of us leaving our homes unattended during this busy period, it’s important to think about home security. Empty houses can become easy targets for burglars, and the last thing anyone wants is to return from festive cheer to find their home has been broken into.
Here are some practical steps to ensure your home stays safe and secure whilst you’re away this Christmas.
1. Don’t Announce Your Plans
We all love sharing our festive excitement online, but posting travel plans or holiday snaps in real time can inadvertently tip off burglars.
Save the updates for later: Avoid posting about your trip until you’re back.
Check your privacy settings: Make sure only trusted friends and family can see your social media posts.
Keeping your plans under wraps reduces the risk of alerting strangers to your absence.
2. Create the Illusion of Activity
A dark, lifeless home is a clear sign no one is around. Making your home look lived in is a key deterrent for opportunistic burglars.
Use smart timers: Set up lights, TVs, or radios to turn on and off at various times during the day and evening.
Ask for help: A neighbour or friend can pop by to open curtains, park a car in your driveway, or collect your post.
These simple tricks can make it appear as though someone is still at home.
3. Secure All Entry Points
It may seem obvious, but unlocked doors or windows remain one of the most common ways intruders gain access. Take time to thoroughly check every potential entry point.
Double-lock everything: From front doors to garden gates, ensure all locks are properly secured.
Upgrade weak locks: Invest in high-quality deadbolts or additional security features for peace of mind.
Don’t forget less obvious areas, like garage doors or sheds, which could provide easy access to your property.
4. Install Visible Security Systems
Modern technology offers a range of options to help protect your home, even while you’re miles away.
Install a burglar alarm: A visible alarm box is often enough to deter intruders.
Consider smart cameras: Many systems allow you to monitor your home remotely via your smartphone, giving you added peace of mind.
Even fake CCTV cameras can act as a deterrent if you’re on a budget.
5. Hide Valuables from View
Burglars often target homes where they can easily spot valuables through windows. Take steps to keep your belongings out of sight.
Close blinds or curtains: Prevent passers-by from seeing inside your home.
Store items securely: Put away jewellery, electronics, and other valuables in a safe or hidden location.
Avoid leaving gift-wrapped presents in plain view, as they can make your home an even more tempting target.
6. Notify Trusted People
A friend, neighbour, or family member can play a vital role in keeping an eye on your property while you’re away.
Leave a key with someone you trust: They can check your home periodically or respond in case of emergencies.
Inform a neighbourhood watch scheme: If your area has one, let them know you’ll be away so they can stay vigilant.
The more people you have looking out for your property, the safer it will be.
7. Plan for Regular Maintenance
An untidy exterior can be a giveaway that no one is home.
Arrange for bin collection: Ask a neighbour to move your bins on collection day.
Handle mail and deliveries: Pause your mail delivery or ask someone to pick it up regularly.
If you’ll be away for an extended period, consider hiring someone to clear leaves, mow the lawn, or manage other outdoor maintenance tasks.
Why Festive Security Matters
The Christmas season is unfortunately a busy time for burglars. With so many people away visiting family or enjoying winter holidays, homes are often left unattended. Protecting your property isn’t just about avoiding financial loss — it also helps prevent the emotional toll of a break-in.
Many insurance policies require evidence that reasonable precautions were taken to secure your home. By following these steps, you’ll not only reduce the risk of a burglary but also stay compliant with your insurer’s requirements.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re heading abroad for some winter sun or spending Christmas with relatives, taking a few extra precautions can make all the difference. From securing windows and doors to using smart technology, these steps will help you enjoy the festive season with peace of mind.
This Christmas, give yourself the gift of security and enjoy your break without worrying about what’s happening back home.