Locksmith Tips: Securing Your Home for Holiday Travel

Holidays should be fun, not stressful. Leaving your home empty can make it a target for burglars. With a few simple steps, you can protect your property and have peace of mind while you’re away. Here’s how to secure your house and reduce the risk of a break-in while you’re on holiday. For a reliable locksmith in Cardiff, visit Tony’s Locksmith.

1. Check Your Doors and Windows

Make sure all doors and windows are locked before you go. Opportunistic burglars often take advantage of open entry points, so double-check your front door, garage doors, and any accessible windows to ensure they are secure. If your locks are old or damaged, including your window locks, invest in new ones or call a locksmith to upgrade them.

2. Don’t Hide a Spare Key

Leaving a spare key hidden under a plant pot or doormat is a bad idea—thieves know where to look. Instead, give your spare key to a trusted neighbour or family member who can check on your house while you’re away.

3. Get Home Security Systems

A good alarm system or CCTV cameras can deter burglars. Add motion sensor lights around the driveway and garden to monitor activity. Motion sensors are affordable and a great tool to enhance security and protect your property, especially in the evening.

4. Make Your Home Look Inhabited

A home that looks lived-in is less likely to be targeted. Use timers to turn lights on and off at random hours, or ask a trusted friend or neighbour to open and close your curtains or blinds. Keep your blinds open during the day and closed at night to mimic your daily routine.

5. Don’t Post Your Holiday Plans

Avoid posting your holiday plans or travel photos on social media until you get back. Sharing too much online can alert burglars that your home is empty. Keep your trip private for your own safety.

6. Lock Up Valuables

Store valuable items, such as jewellery or tools, in a home safe. If you don’t have one, hide valuables out of sight from windows. For outdoor equipment or bicycles, lock them away in the garage.

7. Stop Regular Deliveries

Uncollected post or newspapers piling up signals an empty home. Stop your mail deliveries or ask a family member or trusted neighbour to collect them for you. This small step will make your home look occupied.

8. Park a Car in the Driveway

If you’re not taking your car on holiday, leave it parked in the driveway to give the impression someone is home. Alternatively, ask a neighbour to park their car in your driveway while you’re away.

9. Check Your Insurance

Ensure your home insurance and buildings insurance policies cover break-ins or damage. If you need to make a claim, check that you’ve followed the insurer’s guidelines, such as locking all windows and doors.

10. Switch Off Appliances

Unplug non-essential appliances to reduce the risk of electrical faults while you’re away. This step not only protects your home but also saves energy.

Conclusion: Holiday Peace of Mind

Securing your home for holiday travel doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow these simple steps—lock doors and windows, stop regular deliveries, and invest in security systems—and you’ll reduce the risk of a break-in and keep your property safer.

A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home, so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday.