In all the excitement and rush to organise your holiday, security can be easily forgotten. By taking some simple precautions and giving your home a “lived in” look before you go on holidays, you can substantially reduce the risk of burglary.

• ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, preferably with deadlocks and keyed window locks;

• let your neighbours know you will be away and ask them to watch out for visitors and collect all your mail;

• cancel all deliveries such as newspapers;

• consider installing automatic timing devices for lights and electrical appliances such as radios and televisions;

• give your house keys to a trusted friend or neighbour rather than hiding them outside your home;

• be sure to notify the key holder when you return. This is especially important if you return home early;

• give your neighbour or friend your contact address and telephone number;

• if you live in a Neighbourhood Watch area, tell the co-ordinator that you will be away, and for how long;

• consider asking your neighbour to park a car in your driveway;

• your answering machine message should simply say that you are unable to come to the phone; and,
  
  
• consider leaving a pair of old work boots by the front door to give the impression that someone is home.