Tips for holidaymakers to return to safe home

Holidaymakers are being advised to ensure their homes and belongings are safe while they are abroad in order to avoid unforeseen domestic stress.

Dave Foyle, head of general insurance at Bradford & Bingley, points out that holidaymakers are often so preoccupied with organising an optimum trip that they forget about taking precautions at home.

He said: "For many holidaymakers getting a good deal and making the most of the time with their friends and families is their top priority at this time of year.

"But without taking a few quick and careful precautions, a holiday could soon become stressful rather than stress-relieving. By making a few simple arrangements you can ensure a safe holiday and a secure home to return to and also have peace of mind that you're properly protected should anything happen."

Bradford & Bingley provides the following tips for protections at home:

Turn off your water supply before you leave. If a pipe were to burst with the water left on you could return home to a flood.

Purchase timer switches from DIY or electrical shops and fit them to a few of your room lights. A main bedroom and the living room are good choices, having them on for a few hours each night will maintain a 'lived in' look to your home and hopefully deter any burglars.

Fit a security light to the exterior of the house.

Secure all entrances to your home. Ensure that all doors, including your garage and shed, and windows are locked.

Ask a neighbour or friend to hold a set of keys in case of emergencies and to pop in regularly to take the post in. Also remember to cancel milk and newspaper deliveries.