This is a revision of a post I put up 6 years ago.
I am repeating it as it has some very good advice that could save you a lot of problems and save you money.
The original post was prompted by an article I read published by the Good Housekeeping Institute.
Below is an extract.
It contains some fairly good advice but as I point out it is not really the answer. Don’t worry I do share a better solution (and one that will not cost you anything) so keep reading.
Here is the extract
5 ways to burglar-proof your home
https://goo.gl/oEaowgOver 70% of thieves search social media to find empty homes.
Beat the burglars by following these top tips to a more secure home:1. Don’t share the fact your house is empty
It may be tempting to share your ‘hurrah, I’m going on holiday’ feeling with your friends but, according to mediabistro.com, 78% of thieves use social media to find empty houses. It’s best to avoid posting about your break on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. And make sure selfie-obsessed teenagers do the same!2. Make your house look lived in
If you get milk or newspapers delivered, make sure you cancel them during your holiday so there isn’t a build up. If you have a window by your letterbox, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s covered so any prying eyes can’t see the build-up of letters by your front door. Things like this make it obvious to criminals that no one is home. If you have timers for your lights, use these to make it look as if someone is coming and going.3. Recruit a neighbour or family member
If you have family or neighbours who can come over every day, they can make it look as if someone is in. If they can move your post, or park a car in the driveway, it will help put off a burglar who may be monitoring your home.4. Lock all your windows and doors
A quarter of break-ins are through windows, so make sure they’re firmly locked, even those on upper floors. If no one is around, consider installing movement-activated floodlights or sensor lights at the front or back of your home.5. Keep valuables in a safe place
Over half of people don’t leave their valuables in a secure place, according to a study by confused.com. In fact, 13% leave items in a sock drawer – a popular target for burglars. It’s worth investing in a safe or finding a clever spot to stash precious jewellery and gadgets. For insurance purposes, doors should have a five-lever mortise deadlock to comply with BS3621 and window locks BS7950.
All excellent advice…. BUT sadly it is not that easy.
Burglars also read those tips. They know the tricks we are advised to use and so are often not fooled.
The fact is that your house is still being left empty and while these ‘tricks & tips’ may help to hide that they are no substitute for having the house actually occupied with someone living there.
This is where we can help. And it is FREE.
We can help you find a suitable person or family to live in your home while you are away. they will even look after your pets. No pretending the house is occupied. It will be occupied by someone trustworthy with good references and it will not cost you anything.
The other side of the coin is that if you would like a rent-free vacation we have houses owners all over the world who let us know when they are going to be away and we can put you in contact with them.
Have a look at our website for more information. CLICK HERE
God bless you,
Ray
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