Going on Holiday? Your Home Security Checklist

Going on holiday should be relaxing, but worrying about your home's security can take the joy out of any trip. By following a simple checklist before you leave, you can significantly reduce the risk of a break-in and enjoy your holiday with peace of mind.

Before you go: ensure all doors and windows are locked with key-operated locks. Don't just pull the front door shut on the latch — deadlock it. Check that all window locks are engaged, including upstairs windows. Secure your garage, shed, and any side gates with quality padlocks.

Make your home look occupied. Use timer switches on lights in several rooms, set to turn on and off at realistic times. Ask a trusted neighbour to park in your driveway occasionally, collect any post or deliveries, and put your wheelie bins out and bring them back in on collection day. Cancel any regular deliveries like milk or newspapers.

Social media discipline is crucial. Never post about your holiday plans before or during your trip — this is a public announcement that your home is empty. Save the holiday photos for when you're back.

Don't leave valuables visible through windows. Close curtains in rooms with valuable items, but leave curtains in other rooms as you'd normally have them — a house with every curtain drawn can look suspicious.

Finally, ensure your home insurance is up to date and that your locks meet your policy's requirements. If you're unsure, call Oldham Locksmiths on 07949 139 475 for a pre-holiday security check.