With the festive season in full swing, South Africans have been taking much-needed getaways, whether it's a short trip to a guesthouse or a family retreat at a remote lodge.

However, while we seek rest and relaxation, the excitement of leaving town can inadvertently make our homes vulnerable to crime.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head: Marketing and Communications for Fidelity ADT, offers crucial advice on how to keep your home safe and ensure your peace of mind during holidays.

Hattingh emphasises the importance of vigilance, regardless of your destination.

“The mere fact that people go to guesthouses and farms to switch off is what criminals take advantage of,” she warns.

Therefore, before embarking on your journey, it is essential to conduct a thorough security check of your home.

“Do not leave anything to chance,” she stresses.

Make sure your gate is properly secured, all doors are locked, and windows are closed. Ideally, enlist the help of a trusted individual who can manage things inside your home, turning lights on and off, opening and closing curtains, and caring for your pets. This helps create the illusion that someone is home.

Another crucial move is to ensure your alarm system is armed and that outdoor deterrents, such as electric fencing and beams, are properly set. Hattingh notes that linking these systems to an armed response provider adds another layer of protection.

“You will be alerted on your cellphone if anything happens while you are away,” she explains. Additionally, customers of private security firms can request extra patrols for added peace of mind during their absence.

Once you arrive at your holiday destination, it’s vital to maintain a cautious mindset. Hattingh points out that holiday accommodation can often be prime targets for opportunistic criminals, who rely on the relaxed state of guests to catch them off guard. “Sadly, this happens far more often than people are aware,” she said.

Here are Hattingh's top five tips for staying safe while enjoying your holiday:

Speak to the establishment beforehand: Always enquire specifically about the security measures in place. Look up reviews online—don't just rely on what their website claims. Word-of-mouth referrals are invaluable.

Secure your valuables: Lock up items in a safe or take them with you when leaving your unit. Always ensure that all windows are closed and doors are securely locked.

Avoid sitting outside after dark: In remote areas, it is wise to avoid outdoor relaxation after dark. While a soothing fire and a drink are appealing, they can leave you vulnerable.

Know emergency contacts: Ask the manager about panic buttons and emergency contact numbers. Emergencies can extend beyond crime, including fires or medical issues.

Have a family action plan: Just as you should at home, devise a plan for action in the event of an emergency while on holiday. While it is difficult to stick to a script during such a traumatic event, having a shared understanding can provide crucial guidance. Keeping everyone calm is the priority.

The Star

anita.nkonki@in.co.za