Do THESE security checks before leaving home. See here!
Here is a list of security checks you should make before leaving your property for an extended period, this holiday season.
Many South Africans go on trips during the year-end holidays. There are, however, several potential risks for unoccupied properties while homeowners are away for extended periods. Here are some security checks you can do to protect your home from any unwelcome visitors while you’re away.
Not only is a property at risk from a security perspective but also due to damage resulting from unforeseen events like geysers bursting, power surges and electrical fires.
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HOLIDAY SECURITY CHECKS
The South African Insurance Association’s (SAIA’s) Themba Palagangwe says that homeowners must take reasonable measures to protect their properties from unforeseen events that may occur during the holidays.
This includes doing maintenance checks on items, such as geysers and electrical works and increasing security measures.
“It is unfortunate that this time of the year tends to expose homeowners to opportunistic break-ins and, in some instances, delays on the reporting of incidents to the police and insurers”, Palagangwe said, per Business Tech.
SAFETY TIPS
With many homeowners taking leave and heading off for the holidays, here are a few things to consider before departure.
Tips for keeping your property safe during the holiday season:
1. Inform your security company and/or neighbours that you will be travelling so that they can look out for any unusual activities around your property.
2. Ensure that electrical plugs and the geyser are switched off while you are away.
3. Consider using a housesitter or installing a timer to switch lights on and off at different times in the morning and the evening.
4. Avoid packing your motor vehicle in full street view since you do not know who may be watching, and what their intentions might be.
5. Postpone deliveries to your home and ask neighbours to collect all mail while you are away.
6. Keep your property free of equipment such as ladders, that could assist criminals.
These security measures might just help to prevent unwanted intrusions and criminal activities at your property until you return.