Charlie Weston: Going on holidays? Protect yourself from burglars with these five top tips

Refrain from posting activities relating to your holiday travels on Facebook and Twitter. It's a good idea to switch off the location services on your phone.

Charlie Weston

IF you are lucky enough to be going on holiday then you would be wise to lock up valuables before you set off. New research has found that the value of the average loss from a break-in when householders are away comes to a not inconsiderable €3,500.

AA Home Insurance offers the following advice to keep your house safe:

- Check your home insurance policy to make sure precious valuables such as jewellery or other expensive items are covered in the unlucky event of a burglary.

- Avoid leaving valuable items in clear view. Instead, be creative with where you hide them. For most thieves, a large wardrobe will be their first port of call, so hiding your items in several locations throughout the house will reduce their chances of getting away with the haul.

- Refrain from posting activities relating to your holiday travels on Facebook and Twitter. It's a good idea to switch off the location services on your phone. Posting an unrelated status online can inadvertently reveal your location to thieves.

- Before jetting off make sure to develop a rigorous exit routine. Ensure windows and doors are firmly locked and always remember to set the house alarm. Consider leaving a light on to give the impression that someone is home - a bathroom light can act as a good deterrent given that it could be in use at any time, day or night. Also invest in some light switch timers, or ask a trusted neighbour to switch your lights on.

- If you're going to be away from home for a long period of time, make provisions with a trusted neighbour. Ask them to collect any post you receive and remember to cancel any expected milk or newspaper deliveries.