There’s nothing quite like a well-earned summer holiday. Whether you’re jetting off abroad or taking a staycation, the last thing you want is to spend your break worrying about your home’s security. Unfortunately, empty properties are a known magnet for burglars, especially during the warmer months when families are away and neighbourhoods are quieter.
Here at Guardian Lock & Security, we believe peace of mind should be part of your holiday package. So before you pack your bags, here’s a practical guide to keeping your home safe while you’re away.
An Empty Home is a Prime Target for Burglars
When burglars choose a target, they’re looking for easy access and clear signs that nobody’s home. With just a quick scan of your street, a potential intruder can often spot whether a house is unoccupied – and unfortunately, summer holidays make this even more obvious.
Before you go, take a few moments to assess your property from the outside. Does it look lived in? Are there signs that someone’s coming and going? Here are some telltale indicators that could put your home at risk:
- No lights on in the evening for several days in a row
- Overfilled post box or parcels left on the doorstep
- Curtains permanently open or closed
- Wheelie bins not moved in or out
- No car in the driveway
- Social media posts revealing you’re away
Even just one of these could tip off a burglar. The good news? A few quick changes can dramatically improve your home’s security while you’re soaking up the sun.
Ensure your Door’s Integrity
Your front door is your home’s first line of defence. If it’s worn out, has a faulty lock, or looks like it could be easily forced open, it’s time to act. A common break-in method involves forcing the lock or door frame, and older or poorly maintained doors are prime targets.
Make sure all external doors are solid and properly fitted with modern, insurance-approved locks. If you’ve noticed your door’s difficult to lock, doesn’t sit flush in the frame, or has any sign of warping or damage, don’t ignore it. These are signs of weakness burglars know how to exploit.
We strongly recommend fitting anti-snap Euro cylinders, particularly on uPVC doors. These locks are specifically designed to resist the snapping technique used by many intruders and offer a strong deterrent.
If in doubt, book a quick security check with our locksmiths. We’ll assess your doors and locks and let you know what needs upgrading – no pressure, just straightforward advice.
Window Security
Windows are often seen as secondary when it comes to home security, but they’re a frequent point of entry for burglars. Ground-floor windows, garage windows, and poorly lit side windows are especially vulnerable – particularly if they’re left slightly open during the summer.
Before you leave, check that all windows shut fully and lock securely. If you’ve got older handles or missing keys, we can fit modern window locks that comply with your home insurance policy.
You can also consider installing window restrictors – these allow windows to open for ventilation without being wide enough for someone to enter. It’s a small fix that makes a big difference, especially during hot weather when it’s tempting to leave a window ajar.
Hold your Deliveries
A build-up of post or missed parcel notes is one of the easiest ways to advertise that you’re away. Even if you’ve taken every other precaution, visible deliveries left untouched for days can give the game away.
A simple fix is to pause your deliveries. Royal Mail offers a ‘Keepsafe‘ service, holding your post for up to 100 days and delivering it once you’re home. It’s inexpensive and a solid way to maintain your privacy.
For parcels, ask a trusted neighbour or family member to collect anything left on your doorstep. Alternatively, use collection lockers or have orders delivered to a different address until you return. The key is to keep your front step clear and your letterbox empty.
Put your Valuables Out of Sight
Burglars are opportunists. If they can see valuable items through a window – whether it’s a laptop on the sofa or jewellery left on a dressing table – they’re far more likely to target your home.
Before you leave, take a quick walk through each room and remove temptation. Draw curtains slightly if they normally are, but don’t leave them fully shut as this can also signal you’re away. Secure valuables in a safe or locked drawer, or better yet, take them with you.
You can also look into motion sensor lighting and smart indoor cameras. These can be managed from your phone and provide an extra layer of deterrence – as well as peace of mind while you’re away.
Get in touch with Guardian Lock & Security now
Whether you’re heading off for a few days or a few weeks, taking steps to protect your home is always worth it. At Guardian Lock & Security, we’re here to help homeowners stay safe and secure with expert lock upgrades, honest advice, and fast emergency service if you need it.
If you’re unsure whether your locks are insurance-approved, if your uPVC door needs attention, or if you’d like to book a pre-holiday lock check – we’re ready when you are.