PROJECT: A PRACTICAL GUIDE ON HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME SAFE BEFORE GOING ON HOLIDAY
- Dec 17, 2025
- 4 min read
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Criminals actively target unoccupied homes during holiday periods.
Proper preparation significantly reduces the risk of burglary, vandalism, and unlawful occupation.
1. SECURE ALL ENTRY POINTS:
Lock all doors and windows, including garage, patio, and outbuilding access.
Reinforce doors with quality locks, deadbolts, and security gates where applicable.
Ensure window latches are functional; consider burglar bars for vulnerable windows.
Lock internal doors to garages, as garages are often targeted first.
2. ACTIVATE AND TEST SECURITY SYSTEMS:
Ensure alarm systems are fully functional and linked to a response company.
Test beams, sensors, panic buttons, and CCTV cameras before departure.
Notify your security provider of your travel dates and provide emergency contact details.
Check that backup batteries are charged in case of power outages or load shedding.
3. MANAGE VISIBILITY AND LIGHTING:
Use timers or smart plugs to switch lights on and off at varying times.
Avoid leaving your home in total darkness at night.
Install motion-activated exterior lighting around entrances and dark corners.
Do not leave valuables visible through windows.
4. CONTROL ACCESS AND DELIVERIES:
Cancel or pause newspaper and parcel deliveries.
Ask a trusted neighbour or family member to collect the post regularly.
Do not leave spare keys under mats, in pots, or in obvious hiding places.
5. YARD AND EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE:
Cut grass and trim hedges before leaving to avoid the appearance of abandonment.
Remove ladders, tools, or loose items that could assist intruders.
Secure garden sheds and storage areas.
6. INFORM TRUSTED CONTACTS:
Inform a reliable neighbour, family member, or caretaker of your absence.
Provide them with emergency contact details and alarm instructions.
Ask them to periodically check the property and vary their visit times.
7. PROTECT AGAINST ILLEGAL OCCUPATION:
Ensure someone checks the property regularly, especially during extended trips.
Keep utilities active; completely disconnected services can signal vacancy.
Secure boundary gates and ensure perimeter fencing is intact.
8. BE CAREFUL WITH SOCIAL MEDIA:
Do not announce travel plans publicly before or during your trip.
Avoid posting real-time holiday updates that confirm your absence.
Share photos after returning home.
9. INSURANCE READINESS:
Confirm your insurance policy requirements for unoccupied homes.
Ensure alarms, locks, and security measures comply with policy conditions.
Photograph valuables and store documentation securely (digitally if possible).
10. FINAL WALK-THROUGH BEFORE DEPARTURE:
Switch off unnecessary electrical appliances.
Check gas connections and water supply where appropriate.
Do a full perimeter inspection before locking up.
Prevention is always more effective than response.
A layered approach, physical security, technology, trusted human oversight, and discretion,
offer the best protection while you are away.
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Regards,
Mike Bolhuis
Specialist Investigators into
Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes
PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949
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