Top tips for keeping your home safe while on staycation

The summer holidays of 2021 look a little different than years gone by. With international travel still on hold for most, people are discovering a newfound appreciation for the sights and stunning sceneries right on our doorstep. However, while staycations are very much on the cards, home security checks are still vitally important to ensure both your home and your belongings are safe while you are away. Progressive Building Society shares their home security tips and advice for maximum peace of mind this summer.

Keep schtum

While it may be tempting, never announce your summer holiday plans on social media. Even if your profiles are set to private, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to sharing personal information online. Our advice? Don’t post about your trip – at least not until you’re back, with tales to tell and photos to upload!

Cancel any recurring deliveries

Online orders and home deliveries rocketed during lockdown, so be mindful of any recurring deliveries that may arrive while you are away. Notify a trusted neighbour or member of the family to collect your post every couple of days –mail and packages piling up on the front doorstep is an instant giveaway that no one is home.

 Create the illusion that someone is home

Beyond setting your lights on a timer, or investing in smart bulbs, you can also set the television and radio to create the typical noise and flickering lights of an average night at home.

Smart tech

Going one step further, intelligent devices like video doorbells and wall-mounted cameras are now widely accepted as an extra layer of security to provide peace of mind. These devices can be accessed remotely, allowing you to keep an eye on your property and even respond to deliveries while you are out of home. 

 Trust a friend

Give your holiday contact details and a spare key to at least one family member or neighbour. That way, they’ll know how to contact you in case of emergency.

Unplug

Unplug all unnecessary appliances to protect your home from an electrical fire or power surge.

 Alert your alarm company

If you have an alarm set up, call your home security company to let them know you’ll be away. Now is also a good time to ensure all your devices are fully functional. 

 Don’t forget about the spare key!

Take any hidden spare keys out of commission… but don’t forget to return them to their hiding spot when you return!