Planning a holiday? While you're excited about your getaway, it’s equally important to plan for your home’s safety. With a few simple steps and smart security measures, you can ensure your home remains safe while you’re away. Whether it's a quick weekend escape or a long vacation, these tips will give you peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your time off.
1. Prepare your home before leaving
- Lock all entry points: Before you leave, make sure all doors, windows, and gates are securely locked. Don’t forget less obvious entry points, like sliding doors or pet doors. Consider reinforcing weak points with extra locks or security bars to add another layer of protection.
- Secure valuables: Keep your valuables, such as jewellery, cash, and important documents, in a safe place. A locked safe is your best option, but if that’s not available, try hiding them in discreet locations or using a lockbox.
- Unplug electronics: Unplugging electronics when you’re away can help prevent power surges and reduce the risk of fire. Items like toasters, coffee makers, and televisions are commonly overlooked but can pose a hazard when left on or plugged in.
2. Use smart home technology
- Install smart security cameras: Security cameras are one of the best ways to keep an eye on your home remotely. With smart cameras, you can monitor your property in real-time through an app on your phone.
- Set up motion-detecting lights: Install motion-detecting lights around your home’s entryways. These lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, which can deter potential intruders.
- Smart doorbells: A smart doorbell with video and two-way audio lets you see and speak to anyone who approaches your front door. Even if you're on the other side of the world, you can give the impression that someone is home.
Check out smart home devices and more available for purchase with CelcomDigi Fibre.
3. Create the illusion that someone is home
- Use timer-based lights: If possible, consider automating your home’s lighting by using timer-based lights. Set them to turn on and off at regular intervals to make it look like someone is home.
- Ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail: A pile of mail sitting in your mailbox is a clear signal that no one is home. Ask a trusted neighbour to collect your mail, or sign up for a service that will hold it for you.
- Leave a car in the driveway: If you have a second car or know someone who can leave their car in your driveway, this can create the illusion that someone is home.
4. Get help from friends or neighbours
- Share your travel plans selectively: While it's tempting to post your travel plans on social media, it’s best to share them only with a trusted friend or neighbour. Let them know the dates you’ll be away and how to reach you in case of an emergency.
- Request periodic checks: Ask a reliable friend or neighbour to check on your home occasionally. They can water plants, pick up any packages, or simply keep an eye out for anything that seems out of place.
5. Avoid oversharing on social media
- Delay posting holiday updates: It's tempting to share vacation photos in real-time, but doing so could alert burglars that your home is empty. Delay posting updates about your trip until after you’ve returned home to keep your whereabouts private.
- Keep your profiles private: Make sure your social media accounts are set to private, so only your trusted friends and family can see your posts. Limit what personal information you share online, especially when you're away from home.
6. Invest in professional security systems
- Install a monitored alarm system: Investing in a monitored alarm system is one of the most effective ways to secure your home. These systems can detect intruders and alert you or local authorities immediately, providing extra peace of mind while you're on holiday. Many systems also offer remote monitoring, allowing you to keep an eye on your home from anywhere.
- Hire house-sitters or security services: If you’re going away for an extended period, consider hiring a house-sitter or professional security services. A house-sitter can maintain your home, take care of pets, and ensure everything is secure. If you prefer, a security company can provide regular patrols to keep your property safe while you’re gone.
Ensure reliable connectivity with CelcomDigi Fibre
To keep your smart home devices working seamlessly while you're away, a stable Internet connection is essential. With CelcomDigi Fibre, you can ensure uninterrupted monitoring through your security cameras, smart locks, and other devices. Stay connected to your home with ease, no matter where you are, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is being monitored in real-time.
