As many people are still hoping to find a last minute holiday deal abroad, insurance companies are advising holiday makers to secure their homes before they go.
One of the biggest home insurance providers Zurich, found in a recent survey that a fifth of holidaymakers do not activate burglar alarms and security lights when they go on holiday. Where one in twenty do not cancel newspapers leaving them to pile up, which is what burglars look for.
Such lapses in security mean thieves get the opportunity they need to break in and cause the devastation that burglaries cause. Zurich revealed that out of all the holidaymakers that come back from holiday, six per cent come back to their house having been burgled.
Bob Turney, a reformed burglar now working as a consultant to the Probation Service, commented: “Being careful with your home security is just as important as remembering your passport.
“Ensure that you cancel your newspaper and milk deliveries and make sure all your windows and doors are locked shut. Deterrents, such as burglar alarms and automatic light timers, put off potential criminals as well, so it is worth investing in them if you can.”
He also suggested homeowners ask a neighbour, friend or relative to visit the property to ensure everything is as it should be and to make the house seem lived in.