Gardai have issued advice on how to secure our homes when going on a holiday.
With the warm and sunny weather now making people think about their holiday plans, it is important to consider the security of our homes. Gardai have revealed one in four burglars enter our homes through an open door or window in the summer. Thefts of tools, equipment and bicycles increase by a third during summer months as unlocked garden sheds and unsecured bicycles are easy targets for a burglar.
An Garda Siochana has a summertime safety campaign which aims to improve home and personal security by sharing "simple but effective crime prevention advice". Other than the most obvious - ensure the house alarm is set before leaving - they have provided following tips: "When going on holiday, remember to secure all windows and doors. Use timer switches or smart apps to turn on lights around your home.
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"Cancel home deliveries and consider using a mail minding service." The "mail minder" service with An Post retains post for collection to prevent it from piling up in the porch. You can also place a "No Junk Mail" sign on the letter-box or simply ask a neighbour to collect your post or if you are going to be away for longer periods.
"Ask someone you trust to check on the property at different times of the day.
"Tidy up before you go on holidays. Overgrown lawns or shrubs could give the impression that no one is at home. Lock away tools, ladders and other items that could be used to break into your home."
What we post on our social media accounts while on a holiday is also very important since "you never know who is reading about your vacation online". Gardai are also saying: "While on holiday, be mindful of what you share on social media. Avoid posting about upcoming holiday plans. Do not post status updates or pictures from your vacation while you are away and turn off the location sharing settings on your smart phone camera."
Another thing you could do is inform the local Garda station about the premises being vacant to afford passing attention on patrols. For vmore home security tips from the gardai, go to their official website.
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