Top Tips To Keep Your Home Safe When Going on Holiday
The peak summer getaway season is almost upon us. As you and your family plan a blissful escape, unfortunately, opportunist thieves are also making their own plans. Right now, burglars are scouting for vulnerable properties to break into while the owners are away. However, with a few security measures in place, you can ensure that your home is well-protected, allowing you to enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.
Summer Home Security Tips
Here are our top tips on how to make sure your home is not an easy target for burglars when you are away:
Make Your Home Look Occupied
A house that appears lived in is far less likely to be targeted. Ensure your property looks active even when you’re away:
Pause newspaper and milk deliveries to prevent tell-tale signs of absence.
Use timers on interior lights to create the illusion of activity.
Ask a neighbour to take out and return your rubbish bins on collection day
Deter Intruders with Exterior Lighting
Motion-activated security lights can startle potential burglars and alert your neighbours to suspicious movement. Install them at key entry points such as driveways, patios, and pathways.
Secure Your Perimeter: Fences and Gates
Your first line of defence is your property boundary. A well-secured fence and gate system can make a burglar think twice before attempting to gain entry.
- Install a Tall Fence - A two-metre fence is an effective deterrent, but for added security, consider a fencing topper like Jacksons’ Fence Security Comb security topper or High Tensile Barbed Wire.
Look for a Higher Security Fence - The EuroGuard Combi from Jacksons combines timber and steel for an attractive yet secure solution.
Choose the Right Driveway Gates - Solid gates prevent prying eyes, whereas open designs maintain visibility if you are part of a Neighbourhood Watch scheme. Look for solid courtyard driveway gates.
Secure Automated Gates - If you have electric gates, ensure no objects like wheelie bins are nearby, which could be used to scale them.
Remove Hiding Spots
Thieves look for places to conceal themselves while attempting a break-in. Minimise their opportunities by:
Keeping front garden hedges no higher than 3 feet.
Trimming back or removing shrubs near windows and doors.
Planting thorny bushes such as holly or roses near entry points.
Cutting overhanging branches that could be used to access your roof or upper windows.
Additional Security Measures
Store ladders and garden tools away, as they can be used to gain entry.
Use gravel paths to prevent silent approaches.
Mark valuable items with security identifiers to aid in recovery if stolen.
Don’t Advertise Your Absence
Avoid posting holiday plans on social media.
Keep your home address off luggage labels.
Always park your car in the garage when at home to disguise absence when you’re away.
By following these simple steps, you can make your home far less appealing to burglars. If you found these tips useful, share them with your friends and family to help keep your neighbourhood safe this summer!
Updated in 2025
