The 10 Security Steps you Need to Take Before Summer Holidays – Northern Districts Security Explains
As summer approaches, many Kiwis are gearing up for road trips, beach days, and getaways around Northland. But before you hit the road, it’s essential to make sure your property is protected. Criminals can take advantage of empty homes and businesses during holiday periods, so here are Northern Districts Security’s top summer security tips to help you safeguard your property and enjoy a stress-free break.
1. Test Your Alarms
A simple yet vital step – test your alarms! Both smoke and security alarms play a critical role in protecting your home or business, especially when left unattended. Before you go, make sure each alarm is fully functional, with fresh batteries if needed. An effective alarm system can deter potential intruders and alert authorities if an incident occurs, giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
2. Double-Check Doors and Windows
Locking doors and windows seems straightforward, but it’s surprisingly easy to overlook in the holiday rush. Go through each room, including any sheds or garages, to check all doors and windows are secure. For extra protection, consider adding deadbolts or window locks to more vulnerable entry points. This extra precaution could be the difference between a safe return and a potential break-in!
3. Secure Valuables Out of Sight
Any valuables, such as electronics, jewellery, or cash, should be stored out of sight from windows and doors. If possible, lock valuables in a safe or move them to a more secure room within your property. Keeping valuable items hidden reduces the temptation for opportunistic thieves who may be scoping out homes – if there’s nothing valuable in their line of sight, they’ll be more likely to leave your property alone.
4. Enlist a Trusted Neighbour or Friend
A neighbour or friend who can keep an eye on your property is an invaluable asset when you’re away for a long period. Ask them to pick up mail, water plants, or even park their car in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home. If you trust them with a spare key, they can also enter the property to check on things periodically, helping you spot potential issues early on.
5. Keep Your Plans Off Social Media
While it’s tempting to share holiday plans or pictures, doing so on social media can alert criminals to your absence. To keep your absence private, wait until you return home before sharing photos or details about your holiday. This small step can go a long way in keeping your property safe.
6. Consider Installing Motion-Sensor Lights
Any valuables, such as electronics, jewellery, or cash, should be stored out of sight from windows and doors. If possible, lock valuables in a safe or move them to a more secure room within your property. Keeping valuable items hidden reduces the temptation for opportunistic thieves who may be scoping out homes – if there’s nothing valuable in their line of sight, they’ll be more likely to leave your property alone.
7. Remove Any Hidden Spare Keys
If you usually hide a spare key outside, now is the time to bring it i! Intruders are familiar with the common hiding spots like under mats or in flowerpots, so removing these keys will make your property less vulnerable. Instead, entrust your spare key to a neighbour or friend if needed.
8. Timers for Indoor Lights
If you’re concerned about your property appearing vacant, consider setting up timers for indoor lights to make it appear as though someone is home. Automated timers can be set to switch lights on and off at specific times, adding an extra layer of deterrence against intruders.
9. Make Sure Outdoor Areas are Tidy
If you’re heading away for a few weeks, overgrown lawns and accumulated mail can signal to burglars that nobody will be home for a while. Before you leave, make sure the yard is tidy and consider having a friend or a lawn care service keep it that way in your absence, so watchful criminals are none the wiser.
10. Consider Professional Security Monitoring
For extra peace of mind, professional alarm monitoring services are an excellent option. Northern Districts Security’s expert team can monitor your property 24/7, alerting you and dispatching authorities if an alarm is triggered. This level of protection means that, even if something does happen, it’s quickly addressed. Find more information about how Northern Districts Security can help safeguard your home or business with alarm monitoring services here.
Taking these steps before you head off on your summer adventures can make a significant difference in keeping your property safe.
At Northern Districts Security, we’re committed to helping you enjoy a safe and stress-free holiday season. For more information about our monitoring services or to discuss additional security options, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team here.
