Holiday Security Tips for an Unoccupied Home

The holiday season is meant to be a time to unwind, travel and spend time with loved ones. For many, especially in Melbourne, the idea of leaving the house empty adds a layer of stress. With the city experiencing a noticeable rise in burglaries, the worry of coming home to a break-in is more front-of-mind than ever.

Alongside the crime concerns, the summer months bring their own set of risks. Storms, electrical faults, burst pipes and other unexpected issues can occur at any time, and without preparation, they can turn a simple trip away into a stressful and expensive experience.

Preparing your home before you head away is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary stress. A few small checks can make a significant difference to your home's safety.

This time of year brings predictable seasonal hazards:

• Break-ins when offenders spot clear signs that nobody is home

• Water damage from burst pipes or faulty appliances

• Storm damage to roofs, fences and outdoor areas

• Electrical faults from older wiring or overloaded circuits

• Lithium-ion battery fires from charging devices left unattended

The good news is that a little preparation can ease the worry.

A Rapidly Emerging Hazard: Lithium-Ion Batteries

Alongside the general crime and weather risks, fire services across Australia are urgently warning about the escalating danger of lithium-ion battery fires, often linked to e-bikes, e-scooters and power tool batteries (Consumer and Business Services, 2025). These fires can occur due to faulty chargers, physical damage or simply leaving devices charging for too long (NFPA). Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV, 2025) reports responding to approximately one lithium-ion battery-related fire every day. These fires are known for their extreme heat and rapid spread, making them especially destructive in unoccupied homes.

How to Prepare Your Home Before You Travel

Inside the home:

• Set timers for lights to create the appearance of activity.

• Switch off non-essential appliances.

• Keep valuables out of sight from windows.

• Check smoke alarms.

• Lock both internal and external garage doors 

• Disconnect and unplug all non-essential chargers and devices.

Outside the home:

• Ask a neighbour to collect your mail or use a mail hold service.

• Secure outdoor furniture and loose items before storms.

• Clear gutters and drains.

• Ensure that window, door and shed locks are working properly.

• Install or test your security cameras.
  
  
  

A Simple Holiday Home Checklist

Before you head away:

• Review your home and contents cover to ensure it matches current rebuild and replacement costs.

• Update your contents list to reflect major purchases from the year.

• Let a trusted neighbour know your travel dates.

With a few small steps, you can reduce the stress of travelling during a period when crime and weather-related incidents are at their peak. Preparing your home now means you can return from your holiday to exactly what you left behind.