Holiday Tips

There a number of simple precautions that you should take before going on holiday.

• close, lock and bolt all exterior doors and windows (do not lock internal doors)
  
  
• lock external buildings i.e. garages and sheds and make sure all tools are locked away.
  
  
• padlock all outside ladders
  
  
• lock and bolt back garden gate
  
  
• move valuable items upstairs out of view
  
  
• deposit valuable jewellery in either a house safe or with a bank
  
  
• turn off gas and water supply
  
  
• cancel milk, newspapers and other deliveries
  
  
• leave house key and emergency telephone number with a trusted neighbour
  

Ask neighbour to keep an eye on

• the property and push through any post or 'free' newspapers which may be sticking out of the letter box
  
  
• inform the police and ask if they can keep an eye on your home
  
  
• switch on burglar alarm and any other security device
  
  
• consider putting radio/t.v. on a timer switch to come on at regular intervals whilst you are away
  
  
• do not leave a gone away message on the answerphone
  
  
• Do not put your home address on labels on your suitcases until you are a ready for the return journey
  

it has even been suggested that you could ask the neighbours to mow the lawn!!