ASSIST247 ARTICLES - HOME SAFETY WHILE YOU ARE AWAY

Ensuring your home is safe while you are on holiday

You are about to embark on that much-deserved holiday. It only comes once a year, and the last thing you want - or need - is to worry about your home and the possibility of being burgled while you are away. Needless to say, these concerns would go against the very essence of what a holiday is supposed to be - a relaxing, stress-free getaway.

But how can these worries be avoided, you may ask. It's quite simple really: burglar-proof your home! Chances are your first reaction to this suggestion has something to do with how expensive the process would be.

To that we say: Firstly, the cost of burglar alarm systems, electric gates, and electric fencing, security bars will pale in comparison to how much you stand to lose if your home is burgled without such preventative measures in place. Secondly, you should not regard the process of burglar-proofing your home as just another holiday expense - it is, in fact, an investment that will show returns all year round.

If your home is not already safeguarded, it might be a good idea to take it in steps - starting with the most important safety measures - over a couple of months. This way, your budget will not suffer a huge blow when all the bills arrive at once.

The most important elements of burglar-proofing your home are installing burglar bars to secure all the big windows and fitting a burglar alarm system from a reputable security company in your area. When everything is finalised, you will agree that it is a small price to pay for peace of mind - during your holiday, and the rest of the year!

Things to remember before leaving for your holiday

With all the exhilaration of finally being on holiday and the eagerness to leave as quickly as possible, chances are it will not take much for you to forget something. As your swimming costume and books-you-finally-have-a-chance-to-read were probably the first things you thought of, we took the liberty of listing some other not so exciting, yet important, things to remember:

• Defrost and clear the fridge and freezer. After a long trip, the last thing you want is to come home to the stench of sour milk and rotten tomatoes.
• Switch off the geyser. You'll be surprised to learn how much money you can shave off your electricity bill with the flick of a switch.
• Make sure all the windows are shut, the curtains or blinds are drawn and all the doors are locked. It might be a good idea to invest in one of those security lamps that switch on and off at preset times in order to create the impression that someone is home in the evenings.
• Give a copy of your house keys to a friend, family member or neighbour. You never know what unforeseen circumstances could require someone you trust to have access to your home. Or perhaps you might just need somebody to water the garden or let some air into the house on occasion.
• Make arrangements for your pets. If you have pets and it is not possible to take them with when you go on holiday, be sure to arrange somewhere for them to stay or to find someone to look after them well in advance.

Follow these tips and advice to guarantee the stress-free holiday you deserve!

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