Don't give a burglar a break this summer
Many burglars target only empty homes. If you are going on holiday or even if you’re just out at work all day, try to make it look like someone is home and don’t advertise your absence.
- Use time switches – available from most DIY stores – to switch on lights, radios and other appliances when you’re out or away.
- If you’re going away, get a friend or neighbour to collect your post, draw your curtains and make your home look lived in.
- If you are taking your car on holiday, ask a neighbour to park in your drive.
Remember to cancel milk and papers.
- Write your home address on a piece of paper and keep it inside your suitcase. Make sure your address isn't visible from the outside.
- Hide financial documents and keys – if someone does break in you don’t want them to also steal from your bank account or take your car.
Download the holiday home security postcard (pdf 364kb)
Home security in hot weather
Don't leave windows open and doors unlocked when you are in your garden enjoying the hot weather. Oportunist burglars
