Abu Dhabi Police shares simple measures to prevent theft, fires and costly damageLast updated: July 02, 2026 | 15:504 MIN READResidents are advised to lock up, avoid oversharing online and use smart security systems.X/@ADPoliceHQAbu Dhabi: With the arrival of holiday seasons and increased travel both within and outside the country, families and individuals are placing greater emphasis on taking the necessary precautions to safeguard their homes and possessions during periods of absence. While travel offers relaxation and enjoyment, it can also become a source of concern if homes are left without proper preparation or preventive measures.Security and safety experts affirm that most household incidents occurring during owners’ absence can be avoided through a set of simple precautionary steps. These measures help protect property and reduce the risk of burglary, fire, or sudden technical failures.A preventive culture that strengthens community safetySecurity specialists note that securing homes before travel is no longer merely a precautionary measure; it has become part of a broader culture of safety and individual responsibility—particularly given the availability of modern technologies and smart protection systems that allow homeowners to monitor their properties remotely.Get updated faster and for FREE: Download the Gulf News app now - simply click here.Ultimately, spending a few minutes preparing the home before departure can save families significant potential losses and problems, while also giving travelers greater peace of mind to enjoy their trips, confident that their homes and belongings are well protected.“Summer with Safety” campaign to raise awareness on home security before travelThe General Command of Abu Dhabi Police, as part of its awareness campaign “Summer with Safety”, has urged community members to take the necessary preventive measures to protect homes and property before traveling. This enhances preventive security, safeguards lives and assets, and promotes quality of life in the community.The authority emphasized that securing the home before leaving is one of the most important measures to reduce risks. It highlighted the importance of ensuring all doors and windows are properly locked, activating security systems and surveillance cameras where available, disconnecting non-essential electrical appliances, safely storing valuables, and turning off water and gas sources before travel to prevent fire hazards.It also advised against announcing travel plans or duration of absence on social media, as such information may be exploited by individuals with ill intent. Additionally, it recommended entrusting a reliable relative or person to periodically check on the home when necessary, thereby enhancing protection and providing reassurance during the travel period.Abu Dhabi Police further confirmed that the “Summer with Safety” campaign is part of its ongoing efforts to promote preventive awareness and spread a culture of safety and security within society. It called on everyone to adhere to safety guidelines, cooperate with security authorities, and report any suspicious activities through official channels to help maintain community security and property safety.First: Ensure all entrances are securely lockedDoors and windows are the first line of defense in protecting the home. Before traveling, it is recommended to conduct a thorough inspection to ensure:All doors and windows are securely lockedLocks are checked and confirmed to be in good conditionAdditional locks are used for external doors when necessaryBalcony, rooftop, and storage area doors are closedNo easily exploitable entry points are left unsecuredSecond: Disconnect non-essential electrical appliancesSafety reports indicate that electrical faults are among the leading causes of residential fires. Therefore, it is recommended to:Unplug unused electrical appliancesTurn off unnecessary air conditioning unitsDisconnect phone chargers and electronic devicesShut off gas sources and ensure connection safetyVerify that smoke detectors and alarm systems are functioningThese measures help reduce fire risks and lower energy consumption during absence.Third: Avoid announcing travel on social mediaExcessive sharing of travel details on digital platforms has become a common mistake that may expose homes to risk.Experts recommend:Avoid posting travel dates before departureDo not share live location during the tripDelay posting photos and personal updates until after returningRestrict privacy settings on social media accountsPublicly shared information may give others clear indications that a home is unoccupied.Fourth: Utilize smart home systemsTechnological advancement has introduced effective solutions to enhance home security, including:Smart surveillance camerasMobile-connected alarm systemsMotion sensorsElectronic locksRemote lighting control systemsThese technologies allow homeowners to monitor their property in real time from anywhere in the world.Fifth: Safeguard valuable possessionsIt is advisable not to leave cash, jewelry, or important documents in exposed areas within the home. Measures include:Using secure safesStoring official documents safelyKeeping digital copies of important recordsDepositing high-value items in bank safety deposit boxes when necessarySixth: Rely on a trusted personUseful steps during travel include:Informing a trusted relative or neighbor about the absence periodRequesting periodic checks on the homeMonitoring any incidents or urgent issuesCollecting accumulated mail or deliveriesThis helps create the impression of ongoing occupancy and supervision.Seventh: Verify insurance coverageIt is recommended to review home and property insurance policies to ensure:Active and valid coverageInclusion of risks such as theft, fire, and accidental damageUnderstanding of claim procedures if neededInsurance serves as a key financial safeguard against unexpected losses.Eighth: Inspect water and drainage systemsEven minor water leaks during travel can cause significant damage upon return. Therefore, it is advisable to:Shut off the main water supply if possibleCheck for any leaksInspect water heaters and plumbing connectionsClean drainage systems before departureAbdullah Rashid Al Hammadi is an accomplished Emirati journalist with over 45 years of experience in both Arabic and English media. He currently serves as the Abu Dhabi Bureau Chief fo Gulf News.