HOLIDAY SECURITY TIPS

Most burglaries during this season are opportunistic and happen when owners are away shopping, socializing or on holiday. Take a few simple precautions and you will not be sorry.

Remember

• 1. Shut and lock all doors, even if you're only going out for a short while.
• Close and lock all windows; - burglars don't like to smash glass.
• Do not "hide" your keys outside your home, nor leave them in an obvious place near doors or windows.
• Make sure your valuables - including televisions, DVDs/Videos and stereo systems - cannot be seen from through the windows.
• If possible make your home look occupied even when you're away by using timers on radios and lights
• When you buy new items like DVD players or video recorders, don't advertise by leaving the empty boxes out for everyone to see, destroy them.
• Hide or lock away all important documents that you do not require during the holiday.
• Don't leave car keys near doors or windows or other obvious places.
• Consider engraving your property; this puts thieves off because it makes it harder to re-sell.
• Ensure you have an up-to-date list of your valuables and keep copies in a safe place.
  

Homes with good security are much less likely to be burgled than those without.

• Deadlocks make it harder for burglars to get out with your goods if they got in through a window.

• Install a deadlock on the internal access door between the garage and the house.

• Window locks deter burglars because smashing glass attracts attention and can leave forensic evidence.

• Visible burglar alarms and Security lighting are a great deterrent

• Spy holes and chains on doors let you see who's there without opening up.

If you will be away on holiday

• Cancel all deliveries to your home.

• Have a neighbour stop by to open and close your window curtains.

• Make sure your neighbours know where they can contact you in an emergency and your expected time of return.

• Invite neighbours to use your driveway and clothesline to make it look like someone is home.

• Lock away any tools and ladders that could be used by a would-be thief to break into to your house.

• Make arrangements for family pets to be looked after.

• Consider inviting a relative or friend to house sit for you.

• Whatever you do, do not leave a message on your door or answering machine that you away.

• Only give out keys to people you trust, and don't label them with your name and address

While holidaying

• Do not display large amounts of money in public.
• If you have to carry cash, keep the larger amounts separate and not in your wallet or purse.
• Be mindful of pickpockets on crowded matatus, buses and in lifts or market places.
• Keep money and wallets on a secure part of your person and be suspicious of excessive bumping.
• When making credit card purchases, obtain your receipt and carbon paper.
• Do not place shopping bags on the ground and out of touch while paying for other items.
• Place packages and our shopping in the boot of your car and out of view.