SECURING YOUR HOME DURING HOLIDAY...

There’s nothing more relaxing than going on holiday after a long, hard year – and nothing more distressing than returning home to find you’ve been burgled. While household contents and home insurance do provide a necessary level of protection, there are a number of simple guidelines you can follow to ensure your house stays safe all year round. Take a look at our safety tips below, and enjoy complete peace of mind whether home or away.

Tips to securing your home

• - If you are unable to find a housesitter to stay in your home and watch over it for the duration, or a portion of your holiday, make sure to let a neighbour or close friend know you will be away. Leave your spare keys with them, and ask that they visit every so often to ensure that no break-ins have occurred. Should they be able to bring your post and any newspapers in, this will also help seem as if your home is occupied.
• - Ensure that all your windows are closed, your burglar bars are firmly fitted, and that your security gates are shut. Also make sure that all doors are locked before leaving, and that main entranceways are secured with deadbolts as well as regular locks.

• - Make sure to stow all valuables personal belongings away from windows where they are easily reachable, and leave your curtains slightly ajar so as to give the impression of someone being home.

• - Never leave your spare key in a plant pot or under a doormat – rather give it to a trusted neighbour or friend to keep safe.

• - If you have a home alarm system, make sure you check it to ensure that it is in full working order before going on holiday. Also alert your security company, neighbourhood watch, and even your local police station to the fact that you will be away.

• - Timer switches for your lights and/or TV will help give the impression that your home is occupied. These are inexpensive, and can usually be purchased from most major hardware stores.

• - Be careful about posting your travel plans on social media websites such as Facebook or Twitter – posts such as these could act as alerts to potential criminals. Similarly, if you have an answering service connected to your landline, do not set your message to reveal that you are on holiday.

Secure your home and its content with top insurance from iWYZE

Of course, the surest way to protect your home and your Household Contents against theft or damage is with an insurance policy from iWYZE – an extra level of security designed to provide peace of mind in all circumstances. Call us now on 0860 63 33 39, submit your details, or complete a quick quote online, and let iWYZE help look after your home, your family, and your continued well-being and comfort.

References:

1. “Helpful Home Security and Safety Tips”. http://www.adt.co.za/residential-security/12-Point-Checklist.htm. Accessed on 17 April 2016.
2. “Keep Your Home Safe on Vacation: 9 Essential Tips”. http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/safety-and-health/keep-your-home-safe-on-vacation-9-essential-tips. Accessed on 17 April 2016.