Winter getaways are the perfect way to escape the cold and enjoy a well-deserved break, but leaving your home unattended during this time can pose security risks. With shorter daylight hours and opportunistic burglars taking advantage of empty properties, it’s crucial to put the right security measures in place before you set off. Here’s how to keep your home safe while you travel this winter.
1. Make Your Home Look Occupied
One of the biggest deterrents to burglars is the appearance that someone is home. Use smart plugs or timers to turn on lights and even the television at set times in the evening. If you usually leave a car parked in the driveway, ask a neighbour to occasionally move it or park their vehicle there to give the impression that the property is occupied.
2. Secure All Entry Points
Before leaving, double-check that all doors, windows, and any secondary entry points (such as garages and side gates) are locked and secured. Reinforce weak doors with deadbolts and use window locks to add an extra layer of protection. If you have a smart security system, ensure that notifications are enabled so you can monitor access remotely.
3. Avoid Advertising Your Holiday
As tempting as it may be to share your travel plans on social media, avoid announcing that your home will be unoccupied. Criminals often monitor social media for such opportunities. Instead, wait until you’re back before posting holiday photos.
4. Install or Upgrade Your Security System
If you don’t already have a home security system in place, now is the time to install one. A modern CCTV system with remote monitoring allows you to check in on your home while you’re away. Smart alarm systems can send real-time alerts to your phone or a key holding security service if any suspicious activity is detected.
5. Use a Key Holding and Alarm Response Service
A professional key holding service ensures that a trusted security team can respond immediately if your alarm is triggered. Instead of relying on neighbours, who may not always be available, key holding professionals can carry out thorough checks and reset your alarm system if needed. This is one of the best ways to protect your property while you’re travelling.
6. Arrange for Someone to Check on Your Home
If possible, ask a neighbour, friend, or family member to visit your property occasionally to check that everything is in order. They can collect post, adjust curtains or blinds, and make the home look lived-in. Alternatively, hiring a mobile security patrol service offers additional peace of mind, as trained professionals will conduct scheduled property inspections.
7. Store Valuables Securely
Before leaving, store expensive jewellery, important documents, and electronics in a safe or lockbox. Consider leaving particularly valuable items with a trusted friend or family member. The less temptation visible from windows, the lower the risk of an attempted break-in.
How A Matter of Patrols Can Help
At A Matter of Patrols, we provide key holding, alarm response, and mobile security patrols to ensure that your home is protected while you travel. Our professional team can respond to alarms, conduct routine property checks, and keep your home secure throughout your trip.
Conclusion
Taking the right precautions before leaving for your winter getaway ensures that you can relax, knowing your home is secure. By investing in key holding services, setting up smart security measures, and making your home appear occupied, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary. Contact A Matter of Patrols today to find out how our professional security services can keep your home safe while you travel.
