As the summer holidays approach, many of us are looking forward to time away with family and friends. Whether you are heading abroad, taking a UK break or going away for a long weekend, it is natural to want to share the excitement online.
However, social media can sometimes reveal more than we realise. A photo from the airport, a countdown to your holiday or a post about being away for two weeks can all make it clear that your home may be empty.
At MES Systems, we believe home security is about more than technology. It is also about good habits, simple precautions and making your property look less appealing to opportunistic burglars.
Why social media can be a home security risk
Most holiday posts are shared innocently. The problem is that public posts, location tags and visible travel updates can give away useful information, including:
- When you are leaving
- How long you are away for
- Who you are travelling with
- Whether your home is likely to be empty
- What valuables may be inside your home
Even if your social media accounts feel private, it is worth checking who can actually see your posts. Old followers, loose connections, public profile settings and shared stories can all increase your exposure.
Social media tips before and during your holiday
Before you go away, take a few minutes to review what you are sharing online.
1. Avoid posting your travel dates
Try not to post countdowns, flight details or exact holiday dates before you travel.
2. Turn off location tagging
Many social media apps can add your location automatically. Check your phone and app settings so that your posts, photos and stories do not reveal where you are in real time.
3. Wait until you are home to share photos
One of the safest options is to save your holiday photos and post them once you are back. You still get to share the memories, but without advertising that your home is currently unoccupied.
4. Check your privacy settings
Review who can see your posts on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X and any other platforms you use. Set your accounts to private where possible and remove followers or contacts you do not recognise.
5. Be careful with children’s accounts too
If your children use social media, remind them not to post airport photos, hotel locations or live updates while you are away. Their accounts may be more public than you realise.
6. Avoid sharing too much in local groups
Local community groups can be useful, but be careful about posting that you are away, asking for holiday recommendations with dates attached or sharing details that make it obvious your home will be empty.
Home security checks before you go away
Social media safety is only one part of protecting your home. Before you travel, it is also worth carrying out a simple home security check.
Lock all doors, windows and outbuildings
It sounds obvious, but doors, windows, garages, sheds and side gates are easy to forget when you are packing and rushing to leave. Take a few minutes to walk around your property before you set off.
Make your home look occupied
Use timer switches or smart lighting to make it look like someone is home. Avoid leaving curtains permanently closed for the whole time you are away, as this can make it obvious that the house is empty.
Ask a trusted neighbour or family member to help
A trusted neighbour, friend or family member can collect post, move bins, water plants or park on your drive. Small signs of activity can help make your home look lived in.
Keep valuables out of sight
Do not leave jewellery, car keys, laptops, tablets or other valuables visible from windows or doors. Consider using a safe for important items and documents.
Do not leave tools or ladders outside
Garden tools, ladders and bins can sometimes be used to help gain access to a property. Store them securely before you go away.
Set your alarm
If you have an intruder alarm, make sure it is set before you leave. It is also worth checking that keyholders are up to date and that anyone responsible for responding knows what to do if the alarm activates.
Check your CCTV before you leave
If you have CCTV, check that the cameras are working, the lenses are clear and any remote viewing app is functioning before you go away. It is much better to spot an issue before you travel than once you are already away from home.
Could your home security do with a review?
A well-designed security system can give you added peace of mind while you are away. Depending on your property, this may include:
- A professionally installed home intruder alarm
- CCTV or video surveillance
- Remote monitoring options
- A safe for valuables and important documents
- Ongoing servicing and maintenance
At MES Systems, we install and maintain home security systems across Nuneaton, Warwickshire and the wider Midlands. Our team can help you review your existing setup or recommend a system that suits your home, lifestyle and budget.
Before you go on holiday: quick checklist
Before you leave, check that you have:
- Locked all doors, windows, garages and outbuildings
- Set your intruder alarm
- Checked your CCTV is working
- Kept valuables and keys out of sight
- Turned off location tagging on social media
- Avoided posting live holiday updates
- Asked someone trusted to collect post or check the property
- Used lights or timers to make the home look occupied
- Stored tools, ladders and garden equipment securely
- Checked your insurance requirements
- Saved holiday photos to post after you return
Enjoy your holiday with added peace of mind
A few simple steps can make a big difference. By being careful about what you share online and making sure your home is secure before you leave, you can enjoy your holiday knowing you have taken sensible precautions.
