We have developed this guide to help in the preparation of safeguarding your home while you are away on holiday. While each house differs from the next use this as a guide to securing your home properly before you go away and you will leave your home knowing you have done all you can to make it safe and secure.

Lights
Leave the same lights on in the same rooms you would usually use
Timers - consider having one in the main room & one in the bedroom, programmed to go on & off at the times they usually would.

Doors & Windows
Make sure all windows are properly secured - including cellar, basement or garage windows
Partially close blinds and/or curtains so people can't see in
Lock all locks on external doors

Mail & Newspapers
Make sure a friend or neighbour empties your mailbox
Cancel the newspaper while you're away

Notify Neighbours
Leave a contact number with a neighbour you trust, so they can contact you in case of an emergency

Leave a key
Never leave a key under a mat or in a hiding place!
Leave a key with someone you trust & someone who will know what to do in an emergency

Other Important Items
Lock gates - but only if the lock can't be seen from the outside
Put away garden tools
Try not to let everyone know you're away - you never know who's listening