Empty properties are targeted because it mean the burglar has less chance of being disturbed and can therefore spend more time searching through your property for what they want. By taking steps to stop your property from appearing empty you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of domestic burglary.



Invest in some timer switches to turn on lights, a radio and possibly other appliances for whilst you are away. After all, the more a property appears to be occupied, the less likely it is to be burgled.

A difficult situation arises in what to do with curtains and blinds. To keep them closed all day may suggest you are away, whilst to keep them open at night again suggests the same. If possible, ask a friend, relative or trusted neighbour to come in twice a day to open and shut the curtains. They can also take any post in, put the bins out, and generally any other task that makes the house look lived in.

Remember to cancel any milk or paper deliveries. A build up of these on your doorstep or from sticking out of your letterbox again conveys the message that the property is unattended.

Cut your lawn before you go away for any lengthy period of time, especially in the summer. Although you may be busy with lots to organise before you go away, an untidy lawn on your departure will only get worse and again creates the impression that no-one is in the property.

If you are going to an airport or train station, ask a friend or relative to take you. If you do take a taxi then use a firm that you know and that you know is reliable and trustworthy.

If taking luggage, then avoid putting your home address on display on the luggage labels for the outward leg of your journey. Someone could see your address and the fact that you are going away and use this information, or pass it on, putting your property at risk. In addition to this, be careful who you tell and where you tell people that you are going away - you never know who else may be listening.

In terms of your actual property, try and make it look as lived in as possible whilst you are away. In addition to using the timers and asking someone to keep an eye on the property whilst you are away, make sure that you lock all windows and doors, including garages and sheds. Keep all valuables out of sight and where possible lock things like jewellery, credit cards and chequebooks away, preferably a hidden safe. If you do not have a safe then avoid obvious hiding places and grouping (especially related items) things together.

Finally avoid noting any holiays on calenders which are on display in the house. Any intruder would then be able to see how long you are away for and any other holidays you have planned for the rest of the year.