Going on holiday? Here are some top tips for keeping your home secure while you're away:

The majority of burglaries take place when a house is empty so while on holiday try to make your home look occupied.

Ask a friend or neighbour to pop in regularly to take the post off the door mat and prevent it piling up and sticking out of the letter box.
Mow the lawn before you go (front and back) so that it doesn’t start looking too over-grown while you’re away.
Set up light timers (ideally at set at different times each day).
Leave your curtains open (having them closed during the day is unusual and can be a tell-tale sign that you’re not in). Or ideally ask a friend or neighbour to open and close them regularly.
Ask a neighbour to water your plants, both inside and out – wilting plants make it obvious that no one is at home.
Tell your neighbours that you’re going away so they can keep an eye on your house.
Ask a neighbour to park a car in drive.
Cancel newspapers & milk deliveries.
Don’t be tempted to broadcast the fact that you’re going away on social media, and be careful about posting pictures while you’re away.

If you’re going on holiday over the summer and are starting to plan ahead, I am now taking bookings for the “Holiday: Home & Pet Care” services I offer to help ensure your home is kept safe and secure while you’re away, and to give you peace of mind.

I offer various packages (including bespoke requests), but all include security checking your home with each visit followed up with an email or text, re-arranging curtains/blinds/light timers as required, collecting the post so it’s not lying on the door mat or left sticking out of the letter box, watering plants (inside and out). I can also feed your cat, take the bins out, and even stock up your fridge for your return!

I am fully insured and DBS checked, and I can provide references on request.

For further information, please email me on rebecca@rebeccacrayford.co.uk or call 07495 636671.