Security tips for your home and car while away

AMI are on your side with security tips from AMI HomeHub and AMI Roadside Rescue to keep your home and car safer, so you can enjoy your time away and relax. 

1. Secure your home effectively.

• Install robust locks, alarm systems and motion-activated sensor lights, and don’t leave keys outside (even once). 

2. Cash and jewellery are some of the first things a burglar will look for.

• Ensure cash, handbags and valuables are out of sight, this will reduce the temptation for a burglar to attempt entry. 

3. Small electricals are on the list of must-grabs.

• This includs laptops, phones and anything that can be sold on quickly. Keep small electricals out of sight where possible. 

4. Keep car keys out of sight.

• As improved anti-theft technology makes cars increasingly harder to steal, thieves will look for the keys so they can drive away without drawing attention to themselves.

5. Use a wooden rod in the track of sliding doors. 

• This will help stop unwanted thieves getting through the sliding door if they were able to jimmy the lock.

6. Make friends with your neighbours. 

• If you’re away for long periods, you can ask them to keep an eye out for anything suspicious, clear your mail and go inside to check everything’s safe. You could join a neighbourhood watch group too.

7. Keep the gardens trimmed. 

• Trees and shrubs give unwanted intruders a place to hide, so get them trimmed regularly so they’ve got nowhere to hide.

8. Use technology. 

• When on holiday, create the illusion you are at home with gadgets such as: 
• Timed lights, radios and TVs
• Automated curtains or blinds
• Automated doorbells that can be answered via an app 

To further protect your home, consider installing a home security system or smart cameras that provide real-time alerts and monitoring. 

AMI HomeHub recommends having professionally installed security systems or smart locks, as these measures significantly reduce the risk of theft. Outdoor lighting, motion detectors, and smart doorbells can also help deter burglars and keep your home safer. 

1. Always lock your car doors and close windows.
2. Don’t leave your keys in the vehicle while unattended.
3. Fit an immobiliser. Even fake ones can be effective deterrents (eg, LED light on the dash and an alarm sticker on the window).
4. Don’t leave valuable items visible, such as sunglasses, wallets, cell phones or handbags.
5. Be aware of where you are leaving your vehicle overnight. Park it in a garage or off the street if you can. Most vehicle thefts occur when the car is parked on the road at night.
6. Imported vehicles do not always have security features, so investigate having these installed if possible. 

Always ensure you have car and contents insurance, so you are protected if the worst does happen.

Check your existing policy is up-to-date and that you are adequately insured online via MyAMI or in the AMI app.