Clare Gardaí urge holiday homeowners to secure properties as summer break approaches

Gardaí in Clare are appealing to members of the public who have vacant properties, holiday homes and mobile homes in the county to ensure they are secure in order to avoid thefts and burglaries. 

If your home is going to be vacant during any holiday periods, Gardaí advise that you ask a trusted neighbour or family member to conduct frequent checks on the property and at different times of the day to note any signs of trespassing or interference.

Along with ensuring the house alarm is set, checking that all windows and doors are secure is a must-do also, with the Clare Gardaí recommending deadbolt locks if the property is set to be vacant for long periods of time. 

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Installing timers on internal lights and motion detectors on external lights will make the house appear occupied and offer natural surveillance of the property. Make sure the home itself does not look neglected as oftentimes criminals will target these properties. 

If you are going to be away for a long time, you can arrange a 'mail minder' service with An Post or ask a neighbour to collect the post for you. Placing a 'No Junk Mail' sign on the letter-box is also a great tip as if criminals notice post outside a home, they will assume the house is empty. 

Lastly, the local Garda station has asked that you inform them about the premises being vacant so they can pay the property some attention when out on patrols.