Are you planning on taking a holiday in the coming months? Make sure you protect your home from burglars – otherwise a household emergency could await you on your return!
According to research from M&S Bank, 82% of all UK adults intend to take a holiday at some point over the next year, and that the average length of time these holidays will last for is nine days. Furthermore, 27% of holidaymakers said they plan to go on holiday for at least a fortnight.
Although this time abroad is likely just what people need to deal with the stresses and strains of home and work, the empty homes holidaymakers leave behind are also perfect for burglars. Figures from M&S Home Insurance show that the number of theft claims in 2014 spiked in July – a popular time for holidays – and that 9% of people have been the victim of burglary, with 22% of these targeted at least twice.
How do burglars break into people’s homes?
- Overall, the majority of burglary victims (63%) said that the criminal gained access to their home by forcing a door or window.
- However, 8% admitted that they accidentally left a window unlocked and the burglar gained access through this.
- A further 4% said the burglar gained entry through an open garage door.
- A total of 12% of holidaymakers said they either will not or are not sure if they will use any home security precautions before they go away.
What household security measures are popular?
Despite the fact that more than 1 in 10 holidaymakers may fail to take any security precautions before their trip, most respondents to the M&S Bank study plan to take some simple steps that should ensure their time off is not tainted by any home security emergencies.
Although there are a wide range of home security techniques holidaymakers can take part in, some are particularly popular. Overall:
- 70% ask friends, family members or neighbours to keep an eye on their home before they go on holiday; and
- 57% move valuable and expensive items away from windows and out-of-sight.
Other top tips to keep a home safe when on holiday include:
- Making sure that all windows and doors are locked;
- Leaving blinds and curtains open and a radio on so it seems like the home is occupied;
- Fitting security lights and timers so potential burglars think someone might be in the building;
- Keeping quiet about your holiday plans, especially on the internet (such as on Twitter or other social media pages);
- Fitting a reliable burglar alarm system;
- Locking outbuildings and sheds; and
- Keeping BBQs, garden tools and furniture behind locked doors.
M&S Bank Head of Products Paul Stokes said that with just a “few simple security measures”, holidaymakers can enjoy “added peace of mind” that will help them to “relax and enjoy their break”.
Protect your security with our household cover!
If you come back from holiday only to discover your windows have been broken, your lock has been forced open or your house is insecure in any other way, you’ll be grateful for your household cover plan! We will protect you from all security incidents involving your home.
