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Dear Resident A holiday should be a time to relax—not worry about your home. Unfortunately, empty properties can attract opportunist thieves. Taking a few simple steps before you leave can make your home less vulnerable and give you greater peace of mind while you're away. ✅ Lock Up Thoroughly
Before you travel, check that all doors, windows, garages, sheds, and outbuildings are securely locked. Don't forget side gates, fences, and any other access points around your property. ✅ Make Your Home Look Occupied
A home that appears lived-in is far less attractive to criminals. Consider: Using timer switches on lights, radios, or lamps.
Asking a trusted neighbour to park on your driveway occasionally.
Leaving curtains and blinds in their usual positions. ✅ Think Before You Post
Avoid sharing holiday plans, travel updates, check-ins, or photos on social media until you return home. Public posts can unintentionally advertise that your property is empty. ✅ Ask a Trusted Neighbour to Help
A neighbour, friend, or family member can: Collect post and parcels.
Put bins out and bring them back in.
Open and close curtains.
Keep an eye out for anything unusual and report concerns. ✅ Secure Valuables
Keep jewellery, cash, important documents, spare keys, and other valuables out of sight. If possible, use a secure safe for high-value items. ✅ Check Your Security Measures
Before you leave, make sure any: Intruder alarms
CCTV systems
Video doorbells
Security lighting
are fully operational and working as intended. ✅ Protect Sheds and Garages
Bicycles, tools, and garden equipment are often targeted by thieves. Lock them away securely and consider property marking or registering valuable items. ✅ Prevent Build-Ups Outside Your Home
A pile of parcels or overflowing post can signal that nobody is home. Rearrange deliveries, pause subscriptions where possible, or ask a neighbour to take items in for you. ✅ Leave Emergency Contact Details
Provide a trusted neighbour, friend, or family member with a contact number in case there is a problem at your property while you're away. 🚔 See Something Suspicious? Report It
If you notice suspicious activity around a neighbour's property, please report it. In an emergency, always call 999.
For non-emergency concerns, contact 101 or report online via then Humberside Police website ☀️ Enjoy Your Holiday – and Help Keep Our Communities Safe
A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference. Take steps to secure your home before you travel, and enjoy a safer, more relaxing break knowing you've done everything you can to protect your property. 🏡🔒✈️ | 
