Of the suggestions given by the London Metropolitan Police t...

Going on holiday?

Don’t advertise the fact that your house is empty. Do remember to cancel the milk and newspapers and also to draw curtains back. Don’t leave notes for tradesmen and try not to talk about your holidays and future plans loudly in public. Operate a “Good Neighbour” scheme to ensure that mail is taken in, the house checked regularly and that lights are put on. If you plan to be away for a long time, make sure that your lawn is cut. Call at your local police station and tell them you are going away. Make sure that they know who has your spare key and how you can be contacted in case of trouble. Especially at holiday time, don’t leave cash or valuables in the house ─ take them with you or lodge them with the bank.