Protecting your home: Essential security tips for peace of mind

Home security should always be a priority, especially if you’re planning a holiday. A few simple precautions can make all the difference in protecting your property and belongings while you’re away. Whether you’re heading off for a weekend or an extended trip, following a smart security plan can help deter potential burglars and keep your home safe.

Is your home as secure as it should be?

Before locking up and leaving, do a thorough security check. Are all your locks working correctly? Is your alarm system activated? Rather than hiding a spare key under the doormat or in a pot plant, leave it with a trusted neighbour or friend.

Unlocked doors and windows – especially at the rear or sides of a home are the most common entry points for burglars. Ensuring they are locked before you leave is a simple yet effective deterrent.

Upgrade your home security

Investing in high-quality security features can add an extra layer of protection. Consider installing:

• Strong locks – Ensure all doors and windows have locks that meet Australian or New Zealand security standards.

• Security screens and doors – Reinforced entry points make forced access much more difficult.

• Alarm systems – A monitored or self-managed alarm system can deter intruders and provide instant alerts.

• Smart locks and doorbells – Video doorbells and smart locks allow you to monitor access remotely from your phone.

Keep valuables out of sight

Burglars often check common hiding spots for valuables, such as bedside drawers, wardrobes, and under mattresses. Instead, store important items in less obvious places like:

• The attic or basement

• A child’s bedroom

• The laundry cupboard

• A locked home safe, securely bolted in place

Simple but effective security measures

Securing your home doesn’t have to be expensive – small, strategic actions can significantly reduce risk:

• Use timers on lights and TVs – Set them to turn on at different times to create the illusion that someone is home.

• Hang washing on the line – A simple trick that can make your home look lived-in.

• Secure your garage and tools – Lock up ladders, garden tools, and any other items that could be used to gain entry.

• Cancel deliveries – A pile of newspapers or overflowing mailbox is a clear sign no one is home.

• Turn down your phone ringer – If it’s loud enough to be heard from outside, it can signal an empty home.

• Ask a neighbour for help – A trusted neighbour collecting your mail or parking in your driveway can create the illusion of activity.

Leverage technology for extra security

Smart home security systems allow you to monitor your property from anywhere in the world. Motion-sensing cameras, video doorbells, and remote alarm systems provide peace of mind.

For optimal results, security experts recommend:

• Placing cameras at least 2.1 metres off the ground, angled slightly downward.

• Regularly adjusting camera positions to avoid blind spots.

• Naming each camera for easy monitoring.

• Using software to switch between “Home” and “Away” modes to save power.

Check your insurance and prepare for the unexpected

Before you leave, review your home and contents insurance to ensure you’re adequately covered. The Insurance Council of Australia advises updating your policy regularly to keep up with inflation and new purchases.

Additionally, keep an inventory of valuables, including serial numbers, model details and photographs. Engraving high-value items can also assist in recovery if they are stolen.

Enjoy your getaway with confidence

A well-secured home allows you to truly relax while you’re away. By taking these proactive steps, you can leave knowing your property is protected. If you’re unsure about the best security measures for your home, speak to a professional for expert advice.