Tips on securing your home during the Hari Raya holidays

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the city for days or weeks is truly exciting, but it is also the time for you to make sure measures are taken to secure your home. There are things that you should take into consideration in order to secure your home and belongings.

Here are several tips from activist K. Balasupramaniam which are simple to follow and they will ensure your memories of Hari Raya only consist of delicious food, great times with family and friends and a worry-free holiday.

“Always let someone you trust know, such as a neighbour, that you will not be around for a certain period of time so they may keep watch of your home from time to time while you’re away.

“Don’t forget to give them your phone number so they can contact you in case of an emergency,” he said. SWITCH ON & PLUG OFF

Bala also suggested you fix an electric timer in your house to switch on and off several lights around your home while you're away. This is to ensure your house is lit up, especially at night, giving the impression that someone is home.

“The timer can also be used to switch on the radio,” he added.

Bala said it is important to make sure that the gas valve to the stove is taken off. Same goes for many other home appliances, they need to be detached from power sockets.

CCTV – DUMMY OR NOT?

Installing a dummy CCTV camera or alarm unit is a good idea for your home. This is especially so for those who cannot afford the real one. How effective these fake cameras or alarms is hard to measure but it could prove as a deterrent for anyone intending to break into your home.

Refrain from exposing valuable objects or items. Bicycles, car batteries or car sport rims could attract burglars who would want to sell these items for a quick buck.

You should also bring along jewelleries, cash, watches and other valuable items or have them placed in a safe at the bank or a hidden compartment in your home.

Don't forget to also bring along your bank books or hide them as well. No one should know how much money you have in your account.

“This is to prevent criminals from knowing how much money you have," Bala said.

Bala also suggested applying waterproof grease on gates located at the back of the house. This would provide an extra ‘obstacle’ for break-in attempts.

“As a long term measure, you can opt to grow bougainvilleas around your home especially at corners where it could provide an obstacle for burglars. It acts as a natural barb wire,” he said.

Bougainvilleas are grown around homes and yards as a security feature because they have sharp thorns that can easily pierce through fabric and into bare skin. While they are a fast-growing plant that creates a colorful barrier, bougainvilleas should be planted with caution if you have children or pets.

Other things to consider before leaving the house for your Hari Raya holiday:

1) Make sure the doors and windows are closed and secured with strong padlocks. Steel chains with locks are also good for that extra protection.

2) Make sure the timer and alarms are functioning properly.

3) Temporarily suspend your newspaper or any subscriptions during the period that you are away.

4) You are also encouraged to take an insurance policy on your home just in case it gets broken in to.

5) Inform the police of your plans and provide them with your details such as contact number, the dates of your departure and return, and vehicle registration number (if you are leaving any).