Northwards Housing

Follow these tips from Greater Manchester Police for a crime-free holiday:

The best burglary deterrent is make the home look occupied.
Unless a room is obviously a bedroom to people outside the home, don't close your curtains in the daytime. Ask a trusted friend or neighbour to close them for you when it goes dark. Neighbours can help each other in many ways. They can keep the home looking occupied by maintaining the garden to even parking their car on your driveway.
If neighbours keep your keys, advise them not to put your surname, address or even your house number on in case they fall into the wrong hands.
Use automatic timer-switches to turn your lights on when it goes dark - don't forget bedrooms.
Cancel any milk or newspaper deliveries.
Avoid discussing holiday plans in front of strangers.
Cut the lawn before you go and trim back any plants that burglars could hide behind.
If there is a chance that mail will pile up on your doorstep whilst you are away, consider the Post Office's 'Keepsafe' service. For a small fee, they can hold back the delivery of mail for up to two months.
Consider leaving important documents and valuable items with other family members or a bank.
If you normally leave valuable pedal cycles or similar items in your shed, consider putting them in the house.
Make sure that you've locked all outside doors and windows and, if you have a burglar alarm, make sure it is set.

A not-for-profit company managing City Council homes in North Manchester