As you head off to enjoy the Easter break, it’s important to make sure your home is secure while you’re away.

Phil is joined by Stuart Bunn from First National Real Estate, who shared simple yet essential tips to protect your home from break-ins and other hazards over the holidays:

• Lock it up: Always double-check that all doors and windows are locked before leaving.

• Insurance check: Make sure your home and contents insurance is up to date.

• Take your valuables: Never leave cash or valuable items lying around.

• Keep it private: Set your social media accounts to private and avoid posting about your holiday plans.

• Don’t advertise your absence: Avoid leaving messages on your answering machine saying you’re away.

• Manage your mail: If you’re going away for a while, redirect your mail or use a Parcel Locker so it doesn’t pile up.

• Garden care: Ask a neighbour to water your garden—dry, neglected plants can signal that no one’s home.

• Lithium battery safety: Never leave lithium batteries charging unattended, and unplug them once fully charged.

• Ditch the obvious key spots: Avoid hiding spare keys under mats or plant pots—these are the first places intruders look.

• Scout your home like a burglar: Look at your home from the outside—are valuables visible? Are there easy access points?

• Gutter check: Clear out gutters to prevent water overflow during rain.

• Dishwasher watch: Check washers, pipes, and hoses. If possible, turn off the water supply to prevent leaks or flooding.

• Power down: Switch off power points before you leave, and make sure lithium batteries are unplugged—even if the power is off.

A little preparation can go a long way in keeping your home safe and sound this Easter.

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