Planning a holiday should be exciting, not stressful. But according to police data, burglary rates increase during peak holiday periods as criminals look for unoccupied properties. The good news? A few practical steps can dramatically reduce your risk.
As professional security system installers, we've seen firsthand what works and what doesn't. Here are our top 10 tips for keeping your home safe while you're away.
Quick Summary
- →Visible CCTV is the single most effective burglary deterrent
- →Timer switches and smart plugs create the impression of occupancy
- →Never announce your absence on social media
- →Arrange mail collection to avoid the 'piled up post' giveaway
- →A professionally installed system gives you remote monitoring from anywhere
Install Visible CCTV
Studies consistently show that visible CCTV cameras are the single most effective deterrent against burglary. Criminals actively avoid properties with visible surveillance. Modern systems allow you to monitor your cameras remotely from your phone, giving you real-time visibility of your property from anywhere in the world.
Set Your Alarm — and Tell Your Neighbours
This sounds obvious, but a surprising number of break-ins occur at alarmed properties where the alarm wasn't set. Before you leave, arm your intruder alarm and let a trusted neighbour know you're away. Give them your number so they can call you if the alarm activates.
Use Timer Switches for Lights
An empty, dark house is an obvious target. Timer switches that turn lights on and off at realistic intervals create the impression of occupancy. Modern smart plugs can be controlled from your phone, allowing you to adjust lighting based on sunset times. Place them in living rooms and bedrooms — not just hallways.
Pro tip
Don't Announce Your Holiday on Social Media
It's tempting to share your excitement, but broadcasting your absence on social media is a gift to burglars. Save the holiday photos for when you're back. If you must post, ensure your privacy settings restrict visibility to close friends only.
Arrange Mail Collection
A pile of post visible through the letterbox signals an empty property. Ask a neighbour or friend to collect your mail daily. Alternatively, Royal Mail offers a "Keepsafe" service that holds your mail at the delivery office for up to 66 days.
Going away soon?
Get your security system installed before your trip. Most systems fitted within 3–5 days.
Secure All Entry Points
Before leaving, double-check every window, door, and garage is properly locked. Pay particular attention to:
- • Ground-floor windows — the most common entry point
- • Patio doors — often targeted due to weaker locks
- • Side gates — should be locked to prevent rear access
- • Garage doors — particularly integral garages with internal doors
- • Shed and outbuilding locks — thieves use your tools to break in
Use a Smart Doorbell
Smart doorbells with camera and two-way audio allow you to see and speak to anyone who approaches your front door, even when you're thousands of miles away. This creates the impression of occupancy and provides a video record of any suspicious visitors. Combined with a door entry system, your front entrance becomes a formidable deterrent.
Don't Leave Valuables on Display
Close curtains in rooms with valuable items visible from outside — particularly home offices with laptops, living rooms with large TVs, or any room where jewellery, electronics, or cash might be spotted. If curtains would look unusual, move valuable items out of sight.
Maintain Your Garden
An overgrown garden signals an absent homeowner. If you're away for more than a week, arrange for someone to mow the lawn or at least keep the front tidy. Overgrown hedges also provide cover for burglars, so trim back any vegetation near entry points before you leave.
Consider a Property Sitter
For extended holidays (2+ weeks), a property sitter provides the ultimate peace of mind. Someone living in your home ensures it looks occupied, handles mail, and can respond to any issues. Several trusted services operate across London and can be arranged at reasonable rates.
Key Takeaway
The Most Effective Step? Professional Security
We offer free security assessments across London and the Home Counties — contact us before your next holiday to ensure your home is properly protected.
Eagle All Security
Family-run security specialists protecting homes and businesses across London & the Home Counties since 2014. All advice is based on hands-on installation experience.
