After a stressful couple of years, we’re now finally able to explore the world again this summer. Unfortunately, it’s during the summer holidays that your home is left susceptible to opportunistic thieves. Despite this rise in threat, Philips Lighting found that only 36% of holidaymakers took steps to prepare their property the day or even hours before they jet-off.

Below we reveal the tell-tale signs that burglars look out for and offer advice on how to optimise your home’s security before your big holiday.  

Empty milk bottles with a note

If you’re someone who regularly receives a milk delivery, then it may be a good idea to pause your order before departing for your holiday. The best way to do this is by contacting your milk delivery service directly, rather than leaving empty milk bottles with a note attached. This is a common mistake and can often be picked up by potential thieves.

Parcels building up

Expecting deliveries while you’re away? Amazon or Hermes delivery drivers may leave your parcels in what they consider a ‘safe place’, like at the side of your property, assuming you’ll be home shortly to pick it up. Even though this is standard practice, a pile of parcels is a clear indication to burglars that you’re on holiday. To avoid any break-ins or suspicious activity, ask a neighbour to collect and hold on to any parcels for you until you’re back home.  

Stacks of post

During your time on holiday, the accumulation of post in your mailbox or newspapers in your driveway is clear evidence of inactivity in your home. That’s exactly what opportunistic burglars look out for. 

To prevent thieves from targeting your property, contact your local post office and request they postpone your mail service from three to 30 days. The good news is that you can collect any mail from that time period once you’ve returned from your trip – that way you won’t miss anything important.  

Take control of your home security 

At ADT, we have a wide range of innovative home security products, designed to protect the things you love while you’re on your dream holiday. From automating your home to make it look like you’re in when you’re not, to 24/7/365 monitoring – ADT is more than just an alarm. 

In fact, you could liken our security system to a ‘virtual house sitter’, keeping a watchful eye on your home at all times, even when you’re not in the country. That’s because when your ADT alarm is triggered, the monitoring centre is immediately notified, prompting them to check up on your home to see if there’s an issue. It’s fast, efficient, and gives you peace of mind all-year round. We even offer Police Response for that extra layer of protection. 

While you’re away, ADT stays at home – 24/7/365. So relax and enjoy your summer holiday without worrying about your home, we’ve got you covered.