With so many families travelling to the coast, abroad, or visiting loved ones during the festive period, one can’t help but be on edge, as our homes are prime targets for break-ins and burglaries.

Keep your alarm system in working order

The worst thing that could possibly happen this Christmas is for ne’er-do-wells to enter your home and the alarm system not go off because of a faulty beam, or wiring, or that it’s not updated to the latest software patch, or any other scenario that prevents your alarm company from being alerted of a crime at your property.

Inform your alarm company of the dates you are away

Though it may sound unnecessary, telling your alarm company that you will not be at home for a period of time is vital in preventing any sort of break-in.

Those on patrol will be extra vigilant when passing your house, and will be more prone to noticing minor details if they know that the area is supposed to be vacant.

For example; If they are aware that you have been gone for three days, and on the fourth night they notice that a window has been opened, a pot has been moved, a light is switched on, or anything else out of the ordinary, the patrolmen and women can investigate and save you from a massive headache upon your return from vacation.

Make sure the alarm is activated when you leave

This may seem like a needless talking point, but in the rush of packing the car and double checking all the essentials are accounted for, it is all too easy to overlook actually setting on the alarm itself.

Your checklist before leaving may look like this:

• Medication
• All three kids inside the vehicle
• Snacks for your spouse
• Own pillowcases
• Youngest child’s favourite toy
• The world’s supply of sunscreen

Now just make sure to add – • Put the alarm on – and you’re golden. Otherwise, if you return home with everything gone and the alarm functioning but not activated, you will never hear the end of it.

So please, prevent that egg from falling on your face and remember to switch the alarm on.

Make sure the emergency contact details are correct

Although it may seem grating if your alarm company phones you constantly while you are enjoying a sunny day at the beach, this is only to ensure that your property and belongings remain safe while you are away.

The worst thing that can happen is if an actual emergency happens at your home, the alarm company will desperately try to reach you, only to find that they can’t, because you placed a 3 instead of a 2 when filling in your number on the form.

This will result in a lose-lose situation for everyone involved. The devil is in the details, so make sure yours are correct.

If possible, tell your neighbours you will be gone

Trust me when I say that no one knows your habits as well as your neighbour, so if you trust at least one of the families or individuals staying around you, let them know you won’t be home.

They are in the best position to notice and report any suspicious activity on your property, and could be the difference between returning to a home ravaged by crooks, or exactly as you left it.

Just make sure to thank them after the fact, as well as return the favour when the opportunity arises, to properly showcase the true spirit of ‘love thy neighbour’.

Hire security officers for your business

To ensure that your business remains safe and secure, it is advised to hire security officers from PSIRA-registered security companies.

This will prevent any unskilled, unproven, or unregistered security officers from monitoring your property.

For many business owners, their companies are their lives, and you shouldn’t leave yours in the hands of someone untrained.