How to keep your home secure when away.

With a smart burglar alarm from ProVision, you can monitor your system remotely.

Going away on holiday is an exciting time to relax and recharge, but it also means leaving your home unoccupied. Unfortunately, an empty house can become a prime target for burglars, especially when valuable items or holiday presents are left behind. As the summer and upcoming holiday seasons approach, now is the perfect time to boost your home security.

Nearly 1 in 100 homes in the UK were burglarised last year, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). With the holiday season on the horizon, it's crucial to take steps to safeguard your home.

Benjamin Wright, a security expert at ProVision Systems, shares his top tips to keep your home safe while you're away on holiday:

1. Light up your property

Sound and light are some of the most effective ways to deter intruders. Floodlights with sensors are a cost-effective solution, providing security when you're not home. Make sure they are installed out of reach to prevent tampering.

2. Secure your valuables

Make it difficult for burglars by keeping valuables hidden and out of sight. The longer they stay in your home, the greater the risk of theft.

3. Install a smart alarm system

Investing in a modern smart alarm system that can be monitored remotely via your smartphone is a smart choice. Ajax alarm systems, for example, feature sensors that detect and warn off intruders before they even approach your property.

4. CCTV

CCTV systems are an effective deterrent and are more affordable than ever with DIY options available. They allow you to monitor your property from anywhere, giving you peace of mind while you're away.

5. Video doorbell

A more affordable alternative to CCTV, a video doorbell is easy to install and highly effective. With motion sensors, it alerts you whenever someone approaches your door, allowing you to monitor activity in real-time.

6. Lights on timers

To create the illusion of someone being home, set your indoor lights on timers and leave a radio on. This small step can make a big difference in deterring burglars.

7. Neighbours

Ask a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour to check on your home while you're away. Simple tasks like feeding the cat, bringing in the bins, or collecting the post will help your home look occupied.

8. Social Media

While it may be tempting, avoid posting updates about your holiday on social media until you're back. Sharing your absence can alert potential intruders that your home is empty.

9. Curtains and blinds

It’s often debated whether to leave curtains or blinds open or closed, but keeping them open while you're away is best. Closed curtains can make it obvious no one is home, and they may also conceal intruders if someone does break in.

10. Home insurance

Prepare for the worst by ensuring you have home insurance. If a break-in does occur, insurance can help protect your property—but only if you've followed all policy guidelines.

Benjamin Wright, Director at ProVision Systems, said: "Sound and light are key to deterring intruders, and a robust smart alarm system is the most effective way to keep them from targeting your home. However, simple, cost-free measures like building a strong relationship with your neighbours, so they can keep an eye on things while you're away, are equally crucial."

For more advice and insights on how to secure your home, visit www.provisionsystems.co.uk.