UAE residents advised to secure homes during travel

As Eid Al Fitr holidays approach, many residents in the UAE are planning trips. It is important to keep homes safe while traveling. Here are six essential tips for protecting your property. First, follow the security checklist from Dubai Police. Lock all entrances and windows in your home. Store valuables in a safe. Don’t leave car keys inside your vehicle. Ask a friend or relative to check on your home during your trip. Make sure your security cameras are working, and turn off water taps and electrical switches to avoid accidents or high bills. Consider installing the Dubai Police's 'Smart Home Security' system. This system provides 24/7 monitoring with smart sensors and cameras. It alerts a dedicated monitoring station if suspicious activity is detected. Verified alerts are reported to the police for a fast response. More details can be found at homesecurity.dubaipolice.gov.ae. To prevent surprise utility bills, use the 'Away Mode' feature from Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). This feature tracks your home's electricity and water usage while you’re away. You must have a smart meter to use it. You can set it up through your DEWA account and receive updates on your consumption. Avoid posting travel details on social media. Sharing such information can expose sensitive data that criminals could use for theft or fraud. Next, inform a trusted neighbor or friend about your travel plans. They can help create the look that someone is home by occasionally switching on lights. They can also collect newspapers and packages from your doorstep to prevent signs of your absence. Finally, ensure your vehicle is secure if you are leaving it behind. Park in a well-lit area with surveillance if possible. Consider disconnecting the battery for long trips and using a car cover to protect it from the weather. Ensure all doors and windows are locked and no valuables are visible inside. Asking someone to check on your car can help maintain it while you’re away.