As the festive season approaches, many homeowners are eagerly planning their Christmas holidays. Whether you're jetting off to sunnier climes or visiting family in another part of the country, it's crucial to ensure your home remains safe and secure during your absence. With burglaries often spiking during the holiday period, taking proactive measures to protect your property is more important than ever.

First and foremost, it's essential to make your home appear occupied, even when it's not. Burglars are less likely to target a house that seems lived in. Consider investing in timer switches for your lights, which can be set to turn on and off at various times throughout the day and evening. This simple trick can create the illusion of someone being at home, deterring potential intruders.

Another effective strategy is to enlist the help of trusted neighbours or friends. Ask them to keep an eye on your property, collect post, and perhaps even park their car in your driveway occasionally. Piles of uncollected mail and a consistently empty driveway are telltale signs of an unoccupied home.

Don’t share your holiday snaps until you get home

In this digital age, it's tempting to share holiday plans on social media. However, this can inadvertently alert criminals to your absence. Be cautious about what you post online and consider waiting until you've returned home to share those holiday snaps.

Securing all entry points to your home is paramount. Double-check that all windows and doors are locked before you leave. For added security, consider installing smart locks that can be monitored and controlled remotely via your smartphone. This technology allows you to grant access to trusted individuals if needed and keeps you informed of any unexpected entry attempts.

Outdoor security lighting is another excellent deterrent. Motion-activated lights can startle potential intruders and make your property less appealing to criminals. Similarly, visible security cameras or even dummy cameras can serve as effective deterrents.

If you don't already have one, consider installing a burglar alarm. Modern systems can be linked to your mobile phone, alerting you immediately of any breaches. Some can even be monitored by security companies, providing an extra layer of protection.

Don't forget about your valuables. Store important documents, jewellery, and other precious items in a secure safe or, better yet, in a bank safety deposit box. It's also wise to create an inventory of your valuables, complete with photographs and serial numbers, which can be invaluable in the event of theft.

For those with smart home devices, take advantage of their security features. Many can be programmed to simulate occupancy by turning lights and televisions on and off, or even playing music at certain times.

Check your contents insurance is up to date

Lastly, ensure your home insurance is up to date and provides adequate coverage. Some policies may have specific requirements or limitations for extended periods of absence, so it's worth checking the fine print before you depart.

While these precautions may seem extensive, they can provide invaluable peace of mind as you enjoy your Christmas holidays. Remember, the goal is to make your home as unattractive and challenging to burglars as possible.

By implementing these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime during the festive season. So, as you pack your suitcases and set off for your holiday adventures, you can rest assured that you've taken responsible steps to protect your home and possessions.

With your property secure, you're free to fully embrace the joy and relaxation of your Christmas break, knowing that you've done everything possible to ensure a worry-free return to a safe and undisturbed home.