Heading off on holiday should always be exciting, and certainly not stressful but before you can relax on a beach or explore somewhere new, it’s important to make sure your home is secure and completely safe whilst you’re away.
Burglaries tend to rise during summer as homes are left empty, and during the manic school holidays some small oversights can sometimes invite unwanted attention. That’s why we’ve created this practical, easy-to-follow Holiday Security Checklist to help you prepare your home, garden and valuables before you travel!
At Herts Security Systems, we believe prevention is better than cure and with a few smart steps, you can leave your home knowing it’s well protected and come home to your property, just as you left it!
1. Lock Up Properly (every single time!)
It might sound obvious, but a surprising number of burglaries happen through doors or windows that were simply left unlocked, or even windows left on a latch.
Before you leave for your holidays be sure to:
Check that all windows are fully closed and locked, especially those that may be slightly more hidden or might seem as less accessible - think upstairs or behind hedges.
Lock all external doors, side gates, sheds, and garages. If you can, use a padlock too!
Remove spare keys from “hiding spots” like under the mat or in plant pots.
Ensure any lock boxes have their numbers jumbled and all keys are present.
If you want to take it a step further, fit window jammers, window alarms and door chains for extra protection. All of these are low-cost, effective, and easy to install.
2. Make It Look Like Someone’s Home
Burglars are far less likely to target a house that appears occupied. You can use these small tricks to give the illusion that someone’s still in and out of your home on a daily basis:
Set indoor lamps on timers to turn on in the evening - but make sure the timings are random as some burglars may notice a regular pattern…
Ask a trusted neighbour or friend to:
Collect your post and deliveries
Move your bin back from the pavement
Occasionally park in your driveway
Leave curtains slightly open (not fully drawn during the day)
3. Install or Upgrade Your Alarm System
If you haven’t already, a wireless intruder alarm system is one of the best investments you can make for peace of mind while you’re away.
Modern alarm systems can:
Alert you (and us, if you choose us to install your system) instantly if triggered
Be armed/disarmed remotely via your smartphone
Still power through power cuts through battery backups.
If you’re leaving in the next few days, we may not be able to help you at such short notice however, we always recommend investing in your valuables, including your home.
Be sure to get in touch before 31st August to take advantage of our seasonal discount on all wireless intruder alarm installs!
4. Set Up CCTV or Video Doorbells
You’d be surprised how even a basic 2-camera CCTV setup can go a really long way in deterring intruders. Whether you want to monitor your front door, driveway, or back garden, CCTV gives you:
Real-time remote viewing from your phone
Video evidence in case anything happens and you need to show the police
A visible deterrent that makes burglars think twice
Pair this with a video doorbell and you’ll never miss activity (or your Amazon delivery) at your front door, even while you’re abroad.
5. Don’t Broadcast Your Trip Online
It’s so tempting to share your holiday plans or post beach photos while you’re away but doing so can also advertise the fact that your house is empty, especially if your social media platforms aren’t secure and locked/privatised.
Avoid posting exact travel dates on public accounts
Wait until you’re home to share holiday highlights - make it into a holiday photo dump of all your best snaps!
Turn off location tags and check your privacy settings
Your holiday memories can wait a few days… your home security shouldn’t be put at risk!
6. Protect Outbuildings & Entry Points
It’s not just your main home/property/building that needs securing. Many burglars will first check sheds, garages, and side entrances for tools, ladders, or even an “easier” way inside the property.
Before you leave:
Fit strong padlocks to sheds and garden gates
Store tools, ladders, and bikes out of sight
Consider a motion-activated floodlight to cover these areas
Being away on a wonderful, restful or even adventurous summer holiday doesn’t have to mean your home is always at risk. Sometimes, levelling up with just a few precautions and the right systems in place, means you can enjoy your holiday without constantly worrying about what’s happening back home or worrying about the “what ifs”.
Whether you’re jetting off for a weekend or planning a long-haul adventure, Herts Security Systems is here to help you leave with confidence and return to peace of mind.
Based in Hemel Hempstead, we provide expert advice, fast installations, and local support across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire.
Not sure what set-up you might need?
Get in touch today for a free chat and/or quote based on your individual property, concerns, priorities and layout!