“We know criminals never take a break, usually targeting the holiday season to ply their trade, so here is a handy checklist based on the “12 days of Christmas” to help keep your risks to a minimum and your holidays joyful,” said Mandy Barrett from insurance brokerage and risk advisors, Aon South Africa.

On the first day of Riskmas – Pay attention to security. Test your alarm and armed response, if you have one. Replace batteries in all passive alarm sensors, make sure door magnets are working, check your electric fence for any broken or faulty strands and clear any branches or plants that could set it off in error. Ensure that opening doors and windows are properly secured. Don’t leave this until the last minute! It is a busy time of year for contractors, so if you do need something repaired, leave some time to get it done before you go.

On the second day of Riskmas – If you are travelling abroad or to neighbouring countries, ensure that your driver’s license is valid. Check the territorial limits of your insurance cover regarding cross-border requirements. Some countries insist on license papers or proof of insurance.

On the third day of Riskmas – Appoint a reputable house-sitting service to switch on lights, feed and take care of pets, clear post boxes, water plants and put out rubbish bins on collection day. And, most importantly, inform you of any problems. Leave a spare set of keys, as well as a contact address and phone number in case of an emergency, such as a power failure, fire, burglary, burst geyser or resetting your alarm.

On the fourth day of Riskmas – Do a vehicle and trailer inspection. Check that cars and trailers are roadworthy and properly licensed. Test your vehicle’s tracking device.

On the fifth day of Riskmas – Lock the mains box outside the property, as burglars may trip this in the hope that your alarm and fence batteries run flat. Lock away garden implements and tools that could be used to force doors or windows open.

On the sixth day of Riskmas – Pay attention to outside lighting by including day-night sensors or motion-sensor lights and replacing any blown bulbs.

On the seventh day of Riskmas – Pay the water and lights bill to avoid a power or water cut while on holiday. Immobilise any vehicles that are left behind, and place any weapons, valuables and important documents in a safe or a bank safe-deposit box.

On the eighth day of Riskmas – Arrange insurance cover on your expensive Christmas gifts; such as jewellery, tech gadgets, appliances and so on. Remember to inform your broker before you purchase the gifts, so that you know when you leave the store, your items are covered.

On the ninth day of Riskmas – Check that all the items travelling with you on holiday; tablets, cellphones, cameras, designer sunglasses, luggage and so on; are covered under your all risks insurance on your household contents policy. It is important to do this on all items that travel outside the home. Also, when on holiday, be extra vigilant. Holiday chalets are often targeted by burglars while you are out and about as people often let their guards down and leave doors unlocked and windows open. There is no fun in coming home from the beach to find your valuables, cash and bank cards were stolen.

On the 10th day of Riskmas – Cancel subscriptions to newspapers and other regular deliveries, and arrange with a house-sitter to clear your post box every day. Remember that social-media feeds can increase your risk of break-ins, so do not advertise the fact that you are on holiday. Hide the telltale signs that no one is home.

On the 11th day of Riskmas – Take the number of a 24-hour incident management centre with you and leave details with a neighbour. Check that insurance details and premiums are up to date. Take your medical aid details/card with and save the number of your insurance broker on your phone. It’s also a good idea to have a 24-hour breakdown assist on quick dial.

On the 12th day or Riskmas – Disconnect computers, TVs and other lightning-sensitive equipment, including TV aerials. This will also help save on utility bills. Unload the fridge or freezer to avoid deterioration of perishable items due to a power failure.