Planning on Going Away During the Summer Holidays?
Summer holidays should feel relaxing, not worrying. Yet one of the biggest sources of stress for homeowners is wondering whether their property is safe while they’re away. Securing your home properly before you travel is the most effective way to prevent break-ins, protect your valuables and ensure you can truly switch off.
Research shows that almost half of all burglaries happen when a home is unoccupied. The good news? A few simple steps can make a big difference. Below, we’ve outlined practical, realistic tips for securing your home before you head off on holiday.
Turn On Your Intruder Alarm — Preferably a Monitored One
Always activate your intruder alarm before leaving. A survey by a major insurance provider found that 33% of Britons ignore ringing home alarms, assuming someone else will deal with it. This highlights why monitored alarms offer stronger protection.
With an ASH Security monitored alarm system, we receive an instant message the moment your alarm activates so we can respond quickly — giving you confidence that your home is protected even when you’re miles away.
Leave Emergency Contact Information
Before you leave, provide clear instructions and a holiday contact number to anyone keeping an eye on your property. This ensures any issues can be dealt with immediately instead of waiting until you return.
Make Your Home Look Occupied
One of the simplest ways of securing your home is to make it appear lived-in:
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Avoid leaving curtains closed during the day.
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Use automatic timer switches for lights, a radio or even a TV to mimic normal activity.
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Ask a neighbour to draw curtains at night or occasionally park on your driveway.
Small changes like these create a strong visual deterrent for opportunistic burglars.
Keep Post and Deliveries Under Control
A build-up of letters, newspapers or milk is a clear sign that no one is home. Cancel all regular deliveries and ask a trusted friend or neighbour to collect your post while you’re away.
Store Valuables Out of Sight
Never leave technology, jewellery or other valuable items in view of windows or doors. Close media cabinet doors, put laptops away and move tempting items out of the line of sight. Securing your home often comes down to removing easy opportunities.
Check Window Security
Around 30% of burglaries begin with an unsecured window, making them one of the most common access points. Ensure every window is fully closed and locked. If you don’t already have window locks, consider installing them — they provide an excellent, low-cost deterrent and improve day-to-day safety.
Lock All Doors — Including Garages and Sheds
Before leaving, check that all exterior doors, sheds and garages are properly locked and bolted. Tools left in an unlocked shed can be used to force entry into your home.
For extra peace of mind, consider products like Garage Door Defenders, which offer both strong physical protection and visual deterrence.
Mark and Record Valuable Items
Marking your valuables with your postcode using an approved property-marking kit makes them identifiable and far less appealing to thieves. Keep a record — including photos — of important items. Burglars have been known to leave well-marked items behind rather than risk stealing them.
Use a Home Safe for Important Documents and Jewellery
If you have passports, cash, jewellery or other important documents, store them in a secure home safe. This extra step adds a strong final layer of protection.
Create a Holiday Security Checklist
With so much to remember before travelling, creating a security checklist can be extremely helpful. Walk through your home and tick off each step to ensure nothing is overlooked. Securing your home becomes far easier when you have a clear, repeatable routine.
Remember: Most Burglaries Are Opportunistic
The majority of domestic burglaries are committed by opportunists looking for an easy target — an unoccupied property with minimal security and low visibility. By following the tips above, you significantly reduce the likelihood of being chosen.
With everything taken care of, you can enjoy your holiday knowing you’ve taken smart, proactive steps towards securing your home.
For more guidance on protecting your property, visit our Domestic Security page or call ASH Security on 0800 917 8975. We’re here to help keep your home safe all year round.
