If the winter chill has got you down, it might be time to consider heading away on a much-needed vacation.
Whether you are taking off for a warmer part of Australia or heading overseas to the Northern Hemisphere where summer is in full swing, a holiday will leave you refreshed and revitalised.
However many people express hesitation when it comes to leaving their home for long periods of time, due to the potential security risks involved.
Well, fear not. There are several things that you can do to help keep your home and belongings safe and sound even while you are off on vacation.
Talk to your neighbours
If you have some close neighbours who you trust, it might be worthwhile talking to them before you head away to ensure they know that your house is going to be vacant.
They can keep an eye on the property and watch for any unusual activity. They can also help clear out your mailbox and, if necessary, mow your lawn.
This will help give your house a 'lived-in' appearance that will deter thieves who might otherwise consider it a potential target.
Invest in a security solution
Investing in a security solution for your home is another great way to achieve peace of mind and ensure the protection of your valuables.
There are home alarm systems available that can fit any budget or property requirements, and these can often be tailored to your needs.
If you invest in a Risco or a Bosch 6000 security solution you can monitor your home via an application Iphone or Android, we call this self monitoring.Self Monitoring allows you to turn your alarm on or off via your mobile phone, the Risco Agility3 allows you view your camera detectors. Use the look in feature to check out your home, whether you are near or half way around the globe, feel safe and secure that your home is protected.
You can be notified of intrusions on your phone, both the Risco Agility3, Lightsys and Bosch 6000 can send you push notifications through the smartphone app.
The Risco Agility3 goes one step further and sends you a a snap shot picture from the camera detectors.
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Hide away your valuables
Sometimes opportunistic thieves will take a moment to look in windows of empty houses to see if they can spot any valuables that might be easy to grab.
That is why it is a good idea to tuck any valuables - such as ipads, phones and computers - away where they might not be immediately visible to criminals.
If you are not going to be taking your passport or birth certificate with you, consider leaving these important personal documents with a friend or family member to ensure they are not stolen or Invest in a small safe to store important documents such as these.
Do not leave valuable or sentimental jewellery in view of potential thieves.
The most important hot spot for thieves are more opportune thefts, than planned break in for certain items. Keep you cash in the bank and your valuables secure.
Always be security conscious, protect your home, protect your valuables.
Home Automation fooling the thieves
The Connect O2 alarm system allows you to use the Z way modules and program your lights to come on or off and certain times while you are away.
Like the Risco and Bosch Solution 6000, the Connect O2 also has a Smartphone app to notify you in the event of intruders.
Setting up your home automation for planned open and closing of blinds and turning on of lights helps fools the thieves into thinking someone is at home.
