Your home is particularly vulnerable when you go away for extended periods, and there are some precautions you can take to make your house look lived in while you are away.

Cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries, and arrange for your mail to be kept aside at the post office to avoid a mounting pile of mail in your letterbox or hallway.

 

It is not a good idea to close your curtains before you leave as closed drapes during the day time is a sure indication that a house in unoccupied. To create the impression that there is someone home, automatic timers can also be fitted to light switches so that lights are turned on after dark. No matter how exciting, do be tempted to discuss holiday plans with strangers or in public places.

 

Deposit valuable items in a safety deposit box at your bank, or in a safe in your house, and put items such as bikes which may usually be stored outside or in a shed inside the house.

Do not put your home address on your luggage – a name is sufficient to allow airlines to contact you.
Mow your lawns and trim back the garden before leaving, and of course ensure that all outside doors and windows have been locked, and any burglar alarms primed.

 

Ask trusted neighbours to help by collecting junk mail, tidying the garden, or opening and closing curtains in your house. They could even park their car in your driveway from time to time. Tell your neighbour when you can be expected home as well leaving your emergency contact details.