Media Center

Trellidor’s sensible security tips for stress-free holidays

20 October 2011

The annual summer holidays are around the corner so now’s the time to sort out those nagging security issues you’ve left undone.  A few simple precautionary measures sorted out well in advance can go a long way towards reducing the chances of a nasty surprise when you’re supposed to be relaxed and carefree.

 Here is Trellidor’s holiday security check list:

 Before you leave (if you’re going away):

• Clean up your garden so that there are no hiding places or easy access points for criminals.
• Secure all external doors with good quality security gates and keep them locked.  This includes sliding glass patio doors, which are easy points of entry as they often have flimsy locks

Take a look at some ideas

• Secure all windows, even second storey ones, with reputable burglar proofing.  A ladder or wheeled garbage bin left lying around is all a robber needs to gain access to unsecured or poorly protected windows. 

See options

• Test your alarm system thoroughly before you leave.

• Don’t leave house keys and remote controls in parked vehicles left at home, even if they’re in the garage.
• Remove any keys kept in cupboards, under the sink and other hiding places and lock them away or take them with you.
• Cancel newspaper and other deliveries and arrange for a neighbour to clear your post box.
• Sadly, robbers often glean information about you and your home from domestic helpers, either willingly or unwillingly.  Be careful about leaving personal information lying around; put valuables in a safety deposit box rather than a safe at home; don’t entrust anyone with a full set of house keys, remote controls and alarm codes.

Before you put your feet up at home for the holidays:

• Use all the relevant tips already mentioned above.
• Be vigilant at all times.  Make it a habit to lock security doors, windows, exterior doors, garage doors, vehicles and driveway gates so that you aren’t caught unawares.
• Allow your dogs inside the house, particularly small yappy ones.  They’re an early warning system plus criminals don’t like to draw attention to their activities.
• Don’t leave empty new appliance or gift boxes outside for collection because they advertise new purchases.  Dispose of them yourself or bit by bit.
• If you arrive home and see something suspicious, don’t go in.  Phone your security company from your mobile phone and ask them to meet you at the gate.
• If children are home alone while you finish off work, make sure they know the drill of phoning you first to check visitors’ credentials before opening gates and doors to strangers.

Trellidor security consultants are trained to carry out free security assessments of homes.  They’re happy to help residents in their local communities beef up security measures before the Trellidor factory closes over the end of year break, so click here to find your nearest Trellidor franchise