Going Away For The Summer? 7 Home Safety Tips To Consider
Summer holidays are a time to relax, recharge, and enjoy a change of scenery. But before you get away and switch off, it’s worth taking a few simple steps to make sure your home stays safe while you are away. An empty property can be more vulnerable to burglary, fire risks, and other household incidents, especially if small warning signs are missed for days at a time.
The good news is that effective summer home safety does not need to be complicated. With the right preparation and professionally monitored protection in place, homeowners can head off on their holidays with far greater peace of mind.
From making your property look occupied to checking essential safety systems, a little planning can go a long way. Here are the top home safety tips to consider this summer.
1. Make Your Home Look Occupied
One of the simplest and most effective ways to improve home security while on holiday is to make your property appear lived in. Homes that look obviously empty can be more attractive to opportunistic intruders.
Using timer switches for lights is a good place to start. Set lamps to turn on in the evening in rooms that would normally be used. Smart plugs and lighting systems make this easier by allowing you to create realistic routines rather than repeating the same pattern every day.
If possible, ask someone you trust to occasionally park on the driveway, open and close curtains, or simply keep an eye on the property. These small visual cues can make a real difference.
2. Avoid Advertising Your Holiday Plans
Sharing holiday excitement online can be tempting, but posting travel dates or live updates publicly may signal that your home is empty. For better summer holiday home security, it’s wise to wait until you return before posting photos or location-tagged updates.
Avoid other clues too, such as out-of-office replies that reveal exact dates, or leaving packed luggage visible in cars overnight before you leave.
3. Hold Mail and Deliveries
A build-up of post, parcels, or newspapers is one of the clearest signs that nobody is home. If you’re away for more than a few days, arrange for mail to be held, redirected, or collected by a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member.
If regular deliveries are due while you’re away, pause them in advance. This includes groceries, subscription boxes, and recurring household orders. Not only does this prevent items from being left outside, but it also helps keep your entrance clear.
For flats as well as houses, communal areas can also reveal a lot. Making sure nothing gathers by your door improves both privacy and security.
4. Check Doors, Windows, and Entry Points Carefully
Before leaving, carry out a full security check of your home. It’s easy to focus on the front door and forget side gates, patio doors, garages, or sheds. Walk through the property and make sure all entry points are properly secured.
Do not forget upper-floor windows that may be accessible from flat roofs or balconies. Check locks, remove spare keys from outside, and never leave keys hidden under mats or plant pots.
5. Reduce Fire and Electrical Risks Before You Go
Home safety while on holiday isn’t only about preventing burglary. Fire prevention matters just as much when a property is left empty.
Unplug non-essential electrical items, ensure appliances like ovens and irons are switched off, and clear away flammable materials near plug sockets. Make sure smoke alarms are working correctly.
If your home has gas appliances, check they are in good condition and ensure suitable carbon monoxide protection is in place. Issues such as electrical faults, fires, or CO leaks can escalate quickly when no one is home.
6. Let a Trusted Neighbour or Friend Know
A trusted neighbour or nearby friend can be a valuable layer of protection. Let them know your travel dates and how to contact you if anything seems unusual.
They don’t need full access to your home, but knowing what’s normal can help them spot potential issues, such as an open window or alarm activation.
7. Use Smart Security Features for Remote Monitoring
Modern smart home security can make it much easier to stay connected to your property while you are away. Features such as remote arming, real-time alerts, indoor or outdoor cameras, and app-based systems allow homeowners to monitor what is happening from almost anywhere.
This can be especially helpful if plans change suddenly or if you simply want reassurance during a longer trip. Rather than wondering whether you set the alarm or locked the door, you can check your system remotely and act immediately when needed.
Holiday With Greater Peace of Mind This Summer
Preparing your home for summer travel does not have to be stressful. By taking a few sensible precautions, you can lower risk, protect your property and enjoy your holiday with greater confidence.
For even more practical advice on protecting your home, explore the Verisure blog, where you will find expert guidance on home security, safety and smart ways to stay protected all year round. And, if you are looking for added reassurance while you are away, it may be worth considering a professionally monitored alarm service that combines smart technology with 24/7 human support, helping ensure your home is protected even when you are not there.