As summer holidays continue in the UAE, community management bodies are urging vacation-goers and expats returning home to take appropriate safety precautions before leaving for the extended break. Emaar, for instance, has been sending out circulars with essential tips to implement as part of ‘home security measures before travel’. The boards at the community entrance gates also outline dos and don’ts for residents to follow.
Safety circulars and security hotline numbers are being shared to ensure residents have access to important information. Residents like Arijit Nandi emphasize the importance of taking precautions such as keeping one light on and checking locks thoroughly before leaving. It is advised to keep an extra pair of keys with someone staying back in the Emirate for emergencies related to the unit.
There have been incidents in the past where residents returning from vacation found their properties damaged. Nandi recalls how his cars were damaged while they were away and how the security personnel couldn’t contact them. This emphasizes the importance of informing neighbors and having someone keep an eye on the property while away. Social media travel posts also pose risks, as authorities have warned against sharing travel details online.
Many residents prefer not to post real-time updates on social media while traveling to avoid revealing their current whereabouts. Others use privacy settings and features like Instagram’s close friends to limit who sees their updates. Keeping an eye on social media accounts for any unusual activity is also recommended to prevent potential threats. Sharing holiday experiences with loved ones is understandable, but caution must be taken to avoid exposing oneself to risks.
Residents like Leen Haffar choose to delay posting pictures on social media until they return from a trip to avoid creating a pattern that indicates they are away from home. Keeping security cameras in the house, ensuring all doors and windows are locked, and storing valuables in a safe are some of the precautions taken by villa residents. Different opinions exist among residents regarding social media posting habits while traveling, with some feeling safe to share online and others opting for more cautious approaches.
While some residents, like Shylou Canuel Lim, do post photos during vacations, they provide minimal information and ensure necessary security measures are in place. Neenu Kamarudin, on the other hand, is active on social media and posts in real time while traveling. She believes in sharing her experiences to connect with her audience, even though security concerns may not always be at the forefront of her mind. Overall, residents advocate for a balance between sharing experiences on social media and prioritizing home security during vacations.
