RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers said with many families heading off to spend time with family and friends over the Christmas period, burglars might be anticipating more opportunities to steal from unoccupied homes.
“During the Christmas and New Year period we often see a spike in home thefts and there would be few situations worse than returning from holidays to find your home, contents, and newly acquired Christmas gifts burgled,” Mr Sayers said.
“Criminals take any advantage they can get, and being complacent with the security of your property plays right into their hands.
“There are a number of simple security tips home owners should consider before leaving for a holiday this festive season, including:
 Ensuring Christmas gifts are located well away from doors and windows and cannot be seen from outside
 Making sure all doors and windows are securely locked
 Telling trusted neighbours how long you are away for and asking them to collect your mail
 Keeping your home looking lived in with open blinds and timer switches on lights
 Not leaving tell-tale packing for big tickets items out for anyone to see
 Securing garages and garden sheds and removing valuables from your garden
 Storing easy-to-carry, expensive items such as laptops, iPads and jewelry away and out of sight
 Not advertising your holiday on social media
“Social media platforms provide an easily accessible source of information for thieves to work out which homes are occupied over the holidays and which aren’t.”
Mr Sayers said it was also essential for people going away over the holiday period to check their home and contents policies are up-to-date and if changes are required, to get them done quickly.
“RACT Insurance encourages everyone to take a few minutes to ensure their insurance cover is up-to-date and to do a quick security check around the home before going away on holidays. If you’ve acquired new items for Christmas, it’s important to ensure those items are covered as well,” he said.
“The festive season should be the time to relax, without the constant worry of your home and contents being secure.”
RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers