Stress free holiday checklist

Some of us will be heading away from home this Christmas to spend valuable time with family and friends. Unfortunately, it also tends to be a time when crime increases. Whatever your plans are this holiday season, here is a handy holiday checklist to help make sure your home stays secure while you are away and some tips to ensure you have a stress-free holiday.

• Keep your valuables away from windows or places where people can see them.
• Make sure your windows and locks are in good condition. Turn power switches off at the walls, unplug appliances and turn your water off at the mains.
• Hide your valuables in unexpected locations. Drawers, wardrobes and even the freezer are well known locations for thieves.
• Hide your remotes: appliances are not as desirables to steal without them.
• ‘Neighbourhood watch’ and ‘beware of the dog’ stickers are good deterrents.
• Automatic security lights quickly highlight someone is on your property; if you don’t have any it’s a good idea to get one installed.
• Trim all trees and shrubs that may provide cover for an intruder.
• Don’t leave keys in hiding spots around the hone.
• Tell a neighbour if you are going away, ask if they would mind collecting your mail or park their car in your driveway occasionally.
• Install a timer switch on lights or a radio, it’s a good way to give the perception you are home.
• If you have an alarm, make sure your alarm company knows that you are away.
• Use your garage; store your outdoor furniture and any valuables from the garden shed away. Make sure your garden shed is locked too.
• Have someone keep the lawns mown and grounds tidy.
• Make sure any prescription medications will last the duration of your trip.
• Let your insurance company know if you are going to be away for 60 days or more.
• Heading overseas? Make sure you let your Credit Card Company know.

On the Road

• If you are driving this holiday period here are a few things to keep in mind:
• Remember that there is a zero tolerance for the published speed limit this summer.
• Take your car in for a service pre-trip, breaking down with a car full of kids isn’t fund.
• Rest up before you leave, and expect delays especially on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. Christmas is already a stressful time of year.
• Make use of rest areas. If you are feeling tired, pull over and rest up.
• Plan some games and pack some snacks to keep the kids entertained and well fed.
• If you have Christmas presents in the car, make sure they are well hidden and out of sight.
• Check to see if your insurance includes a Roadside Assistance Service and if so make sure to put their number in your phone just in case.

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