Families planning to leave their homes for trips this Onam week should take extra precautions, as thieves can be on the lookout for houses left unattended for days at a stretch. A little care before locking up can go a long way in preventing theft and even keeping your house off the radar of burglars.

Avoid tell-tale signs
If you are leaving your house closed for a week or more, make sure to avoid giving away tell-tale signs that reveal the absence of occupants. For instance, piles of newspapers or milk packets left at the gate, outdoor lights burning even during the day or dry leaves gathering in the yard can all signal that no one is home.

It is always wise to request a trusted neighbour to check on your house at least once a day. This way, any suspicious activity or attempted break-in can be noticed in time. Installing CCTV cameras is another important step, allowing you to monitor your home remotely, even from faraway locations.

Inform police
Do not leave tools like knives, machetes, iron rods, ladders or ropes lying around in the premises. Such items can be misused by burglars to break open doors or gain access to the roof. Residents who plan to be away from home for several days should also inform the local police station. Emergency service number 112 can be used for this purpose.

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You can also use the `Locked House Information' link available on the POL App of the Kerala Police to notify the police. The details to be provided include the date of departure and the contact numbers of neighbours or nearby relatives. Once registered, the police will keep watch over your house and its premises for up to 14 days.

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