If you’re going away on holidays or will be away from home, what steps do you take to keep your home safe from burglars? With Easter just around the corner, many Australians will be heading off on holidays, leaving the family home vulnerable to a break in.

Follow this checklist to keep your home safe

Refrain from posting statuses or photos on social media about going away, your whereabouts or recent purchases, gifts or high value items.
Make sure your high quality door locks and window locks are in a good working order and are latched before you leave your home.
Don’t leave your keys outside in a hiding spot for friends or family members. No matter how good you think your hiding spot is, a burglar will likely find them.
Have a friend or neighbour collect your mail so your letterbox doesn’t pile up and make it obvious that you’re not home. Also consider a temporary hold of your mail with Australia Post.
Use timers for lights, lamps and other electrical appliances such as a radio or television to give the impression that someone is home.
Park your vehicle in the driveway or ask a friend or neighbor to park their vehicle in your driveway to give the impression that someone is home.
Eliminate potential hiding spots by pruning back the garden and installing motion sensor lighting to the exterior of your home.
Ensure your garage and shed are securely locked which will help restrict access to tools which may be used to gain access to your home.

Install a monitored alarm system, security screens and locks or bars on all windows which may also reduce your insurance premium.

Advise your insurance broker or insurer if you’re going to be away from your home for an extended period of time. Some policies may not cover extended unoccupancy periods.

Keep receipts for high value items and take photographs of your belongings to make it easier if you need to make an insurance claim.

You can also download a copy of this checklist here.