Say yes to cheaper van, home and car insurance

Holidaymakers are being warned to ensure their house is secure before setting off on their travels, in order to avoid making a claim on their home insurance.

Security specialist Micromark has revealed that around three-quarters of us fear that our homes will be broken into while we are away on holiday.

To add to those concerns, statistics have been released demonstrating that 49 per cent of convicted burglars have admitted during questioning that they target empty homes.

In addition, 67 per cent of criminals asked revealed that they were put off attempting to break into a property if there were visible security measures on display.

Some sage advice to holidaymakers is offered on the government's Crime Reduction website, with top tips to avoid being burgled.

Homeowners are encouraged to install tall fencing at the back of the house, but ensure that the front is clearly visible, so that burglars can be seen if they are moving around the house.

It is also advised to ask a trusted neighbour or friend to push mail and newspapers through the letterbox, as a build-up of such items is a tell-tale sign of an empty home.

Finally, travellers should check with their home insurance provider to see if giving a spare set of keys to a friend or relative will constitute a breach of their policy.

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