Heading away on holiday should be an exciting and stress-free experience. Unfortunately, for many South Africans, the worry of what may happen at home can overshadow the joy of travelling. Crime levels often rise during holiday periods, and empty houses can become easy targets for opportunistic criminals. With some thoughtful preparation and awareness, you can protect your property, valuables, and peace of mind so you can truly relax while you are away. Strengthen Your Home’s SecurityOne of the most effective ways to protect your home is to make it physically secure. Before leaving, walk through your property and ensure all windows, security gates, garage doors, and exterior doors are properly locked and in good working condition. Look for weaker points, such as sliding doors that can easily be lifted or windows without locks. Investing in stronger locks or reinforcing entry points makes a significant difference. The more difficult it is to gain access, the less likely a criminal will attempt a break-in.Ensure Your Alarm and Home Security Systems Are Fully FunctionalModern alarm systems and CCTV cameras are powerful deterrents. If you already have security technology installed, take the time to test every component. Make sure your alarm responds quickly, sensors are active, cameras are recording, and batteries are not flat. Informing your armed response or security company that you will be away ensures quicker action if something goes wrong. If you have smart technology, remote monitoring through your phone gives you control and reassurance while travelling.Avoid Letting the World Know You Are AwayMany homeowners unintentionally expose themselves to risk by sharing their travel plans online. Posting about departure dates, flight times, location tags, or daily holiday updates immediately alerts others that your home is empty. Keeping travel information private until you are back is a safer choice. Asking a trusted neighbour or friend to check on your home, collect letters, or clear delivered flyers also helps disguise your absence and prevents your house from appearing abandoned.Make Your Home Look OccupiedHomes that look lived-in are far less attractive to criminals. Before leaving, consider how your property appears from the outside. Leaving lights on a timer, slightly opening curtains rather than shutting them completely, and arranging for someone to move a bin or park a car in the driveway can create a sense of activity. Even small signs of movement discourage unwanted attention, especially for longer trips.Secure Valuables and Important DocumentsAnother important step is safeguarding the items inside your home. Jewellery, laptops, identity documents, banking information, and expensive electronics should be stored in a safe or placed out of sight. Many break-ins are not only about theft but also identity crime, where personal documents are used to open accounts or commit fraud. Taking time to store valuable items securely reduces the emotional and financial stress of a potential burglary. Keep Your Garden and Exterior TidyThe outside condition of your home communicates whether someone is present. Overgrown grass, scattered tools, or untidy outdoor spaces make it obvious the property is not occupied. Before travelling, ensure the garden is trimmed, tools and equipment are stored away, and outdoor furniture is secure. A neat exterior removes hiding spots and prevents visual clues that you are away.Inform Your Security CompanyIf you live in an area with armed response, neighbourhood watch, or community patrols, letting them know about your trip helps add another layer of protection. Trusted neighbours can watch for unusual activity, security companies can prioritise your home on patrol routes, and emergency contacts can be arranged ahead of time.With the right planning, you can step away from home confident that your property will be safe, secure, and waiting for you just as you left it.If you are travelling this festive season, be safe on the roads and enjoy every moment with the people who matter most. Should you have any property-related queries during this period — whether you’re buying, selling, investing, or simply seeking guidance — we are available and ready to assist. Wishing you a joyful and secure holiday season!
